Did you hear the news? HBO changed its name…again. It’s now back to HBO Max, and they announced the change through a slew of hilarious memes and videos making fun of themselves. The identity crisis and the ever-evolving library of content are impossible to keep up with, but we’re making the latter a little easier. (We can’t help you remember the name — we’ll probably just call it HBO forever.)
While HBO Max is known for having some amazing limited series, especially as of late — The Last of Us, The White Lotus, Hacks, to name just a few — it’s also a prime destination for movies. (It originated as Home Box Office, after all.) So let us be your guide to the best movies on HBO Max this month, in no particular order. And if you don’t have an HBO Max account already, you’ll be convinced it’s worth the investment after reading this.
The 10 Best Movies on HBO Max Right Now
Dog Day Afternoon
When rookie criminal Sonny Wortzik (Al Pacino) attempts a bank robbery in Brooklyn, a hostage swiftly situation develops. As Sonny fails to remain in control, a media circus develops. Gradually, Sonny’s surprising motivations unfold. If you’ve never seen this classic, expect to be utterly wowed by Pacino’s performance.
Misery
After a serious car crash, novelist Paul Sheldon (James Caan) is rescued from death by a fan and former nurse, Annie Wilkes (Kathy Bates). Annie brings him to her remote cabin, where she discovers Sheldon is killing off her favorite character from his novels. Annie grows increasingly controlling as she coerces him to shape his writing to suit her fantasies. This chilling thriller is based on a bestselling Stephen King novel.
Selena (1997)
This 90s hit tells the life story of Tejano superstar singer, Selena Quintanilla (played here by Jennifer Lopez). You likely already know how the film ends (if you haven’t seen it, we’re sure you can guess), but we promise that Lopez’s performance is worth the eventual tears.
Your Name
If you think that anime is kids stuff, here’s a contemporary film that will change your mind. Two teenagers (who are utter strangers) share a profound, magical connection upon discovering they are swapping bodies. Things get even more complicated when they attempt to meet in person.
Spirited Away
In Hayao Miyazaki’s Academy Award-winning masterpiece, 10-year-old Chihiro and her parents stumble upon an empty amusement park. After her parents are suddenly turned into pigs, Chihiro meets the mysterious Haku, who explains that the park is a resort for supernatural beings and that she must work there to free herself and her parents.
Se7en
When veteran police Detective William Somerset (Morgan Freeman) takes on his final case with the aid of newly transferred David Mills (Brad Pitt), they uncover a number of elaborate and gory murders. They realize they are tracking a serial killer (Kevin Spacey) whose targeting people he thinks represent one of the seven deadly sins. Expect twists, turns, and a surprising ending.
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
In this lighthearted film, a group of British retirees (Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Bill Nighy) decide to retire in exotic, inexpensive India. Imagining a leisurely life in lush surroundings, they arrive and find that the Marigold is actually a shell of its former self. Though their new home doesn’t match their fantasies, the retirees discover that life can begin again when they let go of their pasts.
Friendship (9/5)
A suburban dad named Craig (Tim Robinson) falls hard for charming new neighbor, Austin (Paul Rudd). But when Craig tries to pursue a close friendship, he struggles to keep his job and marriage afloat.
Warfare (9/12)
In this gripping 2025 war film, A platoon of Navy SEALs embark on a dangerous mission in Ramadi, Iraq. A unique aspect of the movie is that the chaos and brotherhood of war is retold through the real SEALs’ memories of the event.
Prime Minister (9/30)
In the mood for a political documentary? This film follows Jacinda Ardern’s tenure as New Zealand Prime Minister — and explores how she navigated crises while redefining global leadership through her empathetic yet resolute approach.
Not finding what you’re craving? Sign up for HBO Max for even more options.
