Despite Max's recent pivot to purging films and TV shows from its programming library, the platform still has a plethora of excellent new releases to offer this holiday season. From live-action dramas to sci-fi spectacles and animated epics, Max has something for everyone. To help you navigate the options, we've put together a list of 10 excellent shows and movies that are sure to entertain.
One of the standout releases is "The Penguin," a surprisingly compelling return to Gotham that explores the inner workings of Oz Cobb's mind and reframes him as a twisted underdog fighting to keep up with fellow crimelord Sofia Gigante. By largely removing Batman from the equation, the show presents its murderous gangsters as people trying to get by in a city that's all too ready to throw them away.
Another highlight is "Invincible Fight Girl," which borrows elements from classic shonen shows like Dragon Ball Z and Naruto to tell its own unique story. The show blends its influences together brilliantly to create fight sequences that are cool as hell, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
For those looking for something a bit more romantic, "Like Water for Chocolate" is a beautiful adaptation of Laura Esquivel's novel. By easing up on the magical realism, the show makes it easier to appreciate the depth of its central love story set during the Mexican Revolution. The show's attention to detail and stunning visuals make it a standout release.
Sci-fi fans will be thrilled to dive into "Dune: Prophecy," which explores the ancient history of the Bene Gesserit order and demystifies some of the legend of the Kwisatz Haderach. The show's exploration of how Valya and Tula Harkonnen reestablished their family as one of the galaxy's Great Houses adds new depth to the Dune franchise's larger story.
Other notable releases include "Creature Commandos," an animated series that establishes a narrative continuity between DC's old films and many of its upcoming live-action projects; "Civil War," a haunting vision of a future that isn't as improbable as we'd hope; "I Saw the TV Glow," a neon-drenched exploration of two lonely teens bonding over a cheesy sci-fi show; and "Trap," a fun thriller about a family man with a secret life.
Rounding out the list are "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," a sequel that achieves the kind of horror-comedy brilliance that made Tim Burton's original 1988 film a batshit revelation; and "Joker: Folie à Deux," a jukebox musical about the Joker falling in love with Harley Quinn while they're both doing time in Arkham Asylum.
With so many excellent options to choose from, Max has got you covered this holiday season. Whether you're into live-action dramas, sci-fi spectacles, or animated epics, there's something for everyone on the platform. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready to binge-watch your way through the holidays.