The 56 Best Movies on Max Right Now

Another streaming service means another vast library of titles to sift through to find what you want to watch. Max is the streaming service from WarnerMedia, hosting not just titles from the pay cable channel HBO, but a bevy of films from the Warner Bros. library and other studios. There’s a great selection of classics, fairly new releases, quirky indies, and yes, superhero movies. The studio behind The Dark Knight and Man of Steel has a solid number of DC films available to stream. But if you’re daunted by all the good movies on Max to choose from, we’ve got your back. Below, we’ve put together a curated list of the absolute best movies on Max. Films that will be well worth your time, with our writers making the case for why each film is special.

So check out our list of the best movies on Max streaming below. And for more recommendations, check out our list of the best shows on Max, best drama movies on Max, and best horror movies on Max.

Editor’s note: This article was updated March 2025 to include Jackie.

‘Jackie’ (2016)

Rotten Tomatoes: 88% | IMDb: 6.6/10

Featuring a stunning lead performance by Natalie Portman, Jackie follows the Academy Award winner as First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, directly in the aftermath of the infamous assassination of her husband. With her own grief and the weight of a country’s on her shoulders, how will Jackie cope? A detailed look at the life of one of the most famous women in American history, Jackie is a biopic that everyone should watch. Such is the praise given Jackie’s way that it even earned an impressive three Oscar nominations, including a Best Actress nod for Portman’s lead performance. – Jake Hodges

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‘Heretic’ (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 91% | IMDb: 7.0/10

Featuring Hugh Grant like you’ve never seen him before, Heretic follows a pair of young missionaries who are encouraged to visit the house of the seemingly harmless Mr. Reed (Grant). However, upon entry, it’s clear his charm is a front for more sinister intentions, with Mr Reed’s sickening game causing the pair to question everything they know — including their faith. Alongside a small and superb ensemble, Grant’s renaissance as a masterful villain has been a viewing delight over recent years, with this role possibly the best of his new era. Although its final act has left some disappointed, let that take nothing away from the breathless horror of Heretic’s opening few chapters. – Jake Hodges

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‘Goodfellas’ (1990)

Rotten Tomatoes: 94% | IMDb: 8.7/10

One of the greatest movies of all time, Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas documents the rise and fall of Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), from his days as a young boy dreaming of becoming a gangster to the heady heights of his criminal infamy all the way to his dream’s inevitable crash and burn. Featuring one of the greatest scripts ever penned, a selection of iconic visuals, and some of the best performances in an array of legendary careers, Goodfellas is the sort of film everyone should watch at least once. – Jake Hodges

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‘Flow’ (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 97% | IMDb: 7.9/10

This Latvian, French, and Belgian co-production has taken the cinematic world by sweet surprise since its 2024 arrival. The movie follows a cat who, after his home is destroyed by flooding, finds safety in numbers with a boat full of different species. A wonderfully heartfelt and culturally poignant animated feature, Flow proves beyond any doubt that, in film, showing is always better than telling. Flow is a true underdog (or rather, undercat) tale, beating the odds to win the Oscar for Best Animated Feature — Latvia’s very first. – Jake Hodges

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‘We Live in Time’ (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 79% | IMDb: 7.0/10

A romantic drama directed by John Crowley and written by Nick Payne, We Live in Time stars Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh as Tobias and Almut, whose lives intersect unexpectedly. A non-linear story set over the course of a decade, the film follows the highs and lows of their life together. Besides Garfield and Pugh, the movie also stars Lee Braithwaite, Aoife Hinds, Adam James, Douglas Hodge, and more.

We Live in Time premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, receiving largely positive reviews from critics. The movie was also commercially successful, grossing over $55 million worldwide. A heartwarming melodrama anchored by the scintillating chemistry between its two leads, We Live in Time is a romance story that takes its cues from the classics and presents a powerful exploration of grief that feels genuine. It’s a great watch for romance fans and lovers of great human drama — just be sure to keep some tissues handy.

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‘Goodrich’ (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 81% | IMDb: 6.3/10

Written and directed by Hallie Meyers-Shyer, Goodrich is a comedy-drama that stars Michael Keaton as the titular art dealer whose life is upended when his younger wife leaves him and enters a 90-day rehab program. With his career and marriage on the ropes, Goodrich is thrust into the world of modern parenthood, leaning on his pregnant daughter (Mila Kunis) for support. The movie also features Carmen Ejogo, Michael Urie, Kevin Pollak, Vivien Lyra Blair, Laura Benanti, Poorna Jagannathan, Andie MacDowell, and more in supporting roles.

Goodrich premiered in October 2024 to a positive critical reception. While the film only had modest success at the box office, it has received praise from audiences for its stellar performances, especially by Michael Keaton. A heartwarming, grown-up comedy with endearing characters, Goodrich is a surprisingly layered film that unpacks complex emotions through a light, humorous plot. It’s a well-performed, occasionally clumsy, but ultimately rewarding story about a man who’s as flawed as they come finally learning to grow past his failures.

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‘Your Monster’ (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 78% | IMDb: 6.4/10

This genre-bending romantic comedy follows Melissa Barrera’s actress Lauren Franco, who, down on her luck and with her life spiraling out of control, finds unlikely solace from a monster living in her closet. A charming horror with plenty of intelligent comedy, Your Monster is a breath of fresh air. Barrera is typically excellent as Franco in a performance that went under the 2024 radar, with the actress proving yet again she’s one of modern horror’s best lead performers. Horror fans or non-fans alike, this is one you’ll want to catch. – Jake Hodges

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‘A Different Man’ (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 92% | IMDb: 6.9/10

Sebastian Stan’s two critically acclaimed 2024 performances, A Different Man sees the MCU alum star as Edward, a man whose facial disfigurement has sent him into social hiding. After taking part in a revolutionary new medical procedure, Edward’s disfigurement is cured, only for him to slowly begin to feel as if he’s also lost his identity. A thought-provoking, darkly comic flick from director Aaron Schimberg, A Different Man is the sort of movie that will live long in your thoughts long after the credits have rolled. Not only that, but it also features a now-Golden Globe-winning central performance from Stan. – Jake Hodges

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‘In the Heights’ (2021)

Rotten Tomatoes: 94% | IMDb: 7.3/10

Hailing from Wicked director Jon M. Chu, In the Heights follows a simple Washington Heights subway stop and its dreaming residents, as one man in particular, Anthony Ramos’ bodega owner Usnavi, saves his money and yearns for a better life. In the Heights is jam-packed with vibrant fun and full of heart, something fans of Wicked will be used to from Chu. The perfect ‘theater kid’ movie, In the Heights still has something for everyone, from an emotionally capturing central story to cinematography ready to take your breath away. – Jake Hodges

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‘Juror #2’ (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 92% | IMDb: 7.0/10

Co-produced and directed by Clint Eastwood and written by Jonathan Abrams, Juror #2 is a legal thriller that revolves around a high-profile murder trial. The film follows the story of a juror who faces a serious moral dilemma when he realizes that he may be the real killer. The movie features an ensemble cast led by Nicholaus Hoult as the titular juror, with Toni Collette, J. K. Simmons, Chris Messina, Zoey Deutch, Cedric Yarbrough, and Kiefer Sutherland in key roles.

Juror #2 had its world premiere at the 2024 AFI Fest, where it received overwhelmingly positive reviews from critics. While the film was not particularly successful at the box office, it has received great praise for its writing, direction, and performances and was named one of the Top 10 Films of 2024 by the National Board of Review. While its premise may sound similar to other legal dramas like the classic 12 Angry Men, Juror #2 steps beyond the standard tropes and themes of the genre to present a clear-eyed meditation on law, order, and the failure of systems.

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‘Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story’ (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 98% | IMDb: 8.1/10

This powerful documentary looks at the life of Christopher Reeve, a man who rose to the top of Hollywood and achieved his dream before a 1995 horse-riding accident left him paralyzed from the neck down. Reeve then used his platform to campaign for disability rights and become the voice for many who had long felt unheard. A touching ode to an incredible man, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story proves that Reeve was just as much a superhuman in and out of the red cape. Insightful and touching, this is a documentary you won’t want to miss. – Jake Hodges

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‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 76% | IMDb: 6.8/10

After almost 35 years, the ghost with most comes back to haunt again as Beetlejuice returns. The sequel to the iconic Tim Burton original follows the Deetz family, now a generation bigger, as they come back into contact with Michael Keaton’s titular bio-exorcist. However, things start to go wrong when the youngest Deetz, Astrid (Jenna Ortega), opens the portal to the afterlife. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice does the unthinkable and satisfies the millions of doting fans of the original movie. With a penchant for practical effects and the same witty, gothic humor, this sequel is well worthy of the Beetlejuice moniker. – Jake Hodges

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‘Dream Scenario’ (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes: 91% | IMDb: 6.9/10

Nicolas Cage is known for his wacky projects, and Dream Scenario is no different. Cage portrays Paul Matthews, a seemingly normal family man and academic, who suddenly (and rapidly) begins appearing in an ever-increasing number of people’s dreams. A brilliantly comedic, surprisingly emotional, and highly unique viewing experience, Dream Scenario features Cage at his enigmatic best. Unlike anything else you’ll watch before or again, this is an A24 project you don’t want to miss. – Jake Hodges

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‘Janet Planet’ (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes: 85% | IMDb: 6.2/10

Written and directed by Annie Baker, Janet Planet follows 11-year-old Lacy (Zoe Ziegler) across a single summer in early ‘90s rural Massachusetts. As three enigmatic visitors enter her and her mother’s world, everything begins to change. Unlike many other movies you’re likely to see, Janet Planet is a fascinating deep dive into the quirks of a mother/daughter relationship. At a catch point in any young person’s life, the desire to grow up is fought by the reality of being young, leading to conflict that is so normal yet inherently strange. A beautiful film featuring a stellar central pairing of performances, don’t let Janet Planet pass you by. – Jake Hodges

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‘Trap’ (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 57% | IMDb: 5.9/10

Directed and written by the great M. Night Shyamalan, Trap follows father and daughter Cooper (Josh Hartnett) and Riley (Ariel Donoghue) as they, alongside the rest of their town, get ready for the hotly-anticipated Lady Raven concert. However, when they arrive, things quickly turn sinister as the duo’s lives begin to change forever. A winding, unexpected tale with plenty of intrigue, Shyamalan is certainly a master of his craft despite a divisive filmography, with Trap brimming with the hallmarks of the veteran filmmaker. For those looking for a killer thriller to throw on this Halloween, look no further than Trap. – Jake Hodges

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‘MaXXXine’ (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 72% | IMDb: 6.4/10

The combination of Ti West and A24 was always going to bring another inviting tale, with this slasher horror a hit with audiences. MaXXXine follows adult film star Maxine Minx (Mia Goth) as she looks to break into the upper echelons of her industry against the backdrop of a 1985 Los Angeles threatened by a serial killer. However, what will happen when a mysterious detective and the dark past of 2022’s X put her dreams in jeopardy? Goth is simply a delight in this third installment in West’s X series, shining among a plethora of eye-catching stars, with Kevin Bacon, in particular, doing his utmost to steal the show as a private investigator. Terrifying, smart, and full of style, you’ll love MaXXXine. – Jake Hodges

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‘Caddo Lake’ (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 79% | IMDb: 6.9/10

Written and directed by Logan George and Celine Held and produced by the master of mystery, M. Night Shyamalan, Caddo Lake is set on the titular wetland and follows the slow cracking of a family after the disappearance of an 8-year-old girl. Originally titled Vanishings, Caddo Lake is another sinister mystery for fans of the genre to sink their teeth into. With twists and turns aplenty, the tension continues to rise as the secrets held by a broken family explode into drama. For those with a Max subscription, this could make for the perfect nighttime viewing experience. – Jake Hodges

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‘The Boy and the Heron’ (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes: 97% | IMDb: 7.5/10

The latest addition to Hayao Miyazaki’s incredible filmography is yet another animated masterpiece. Studio Ghibli’s The Boy and the Heron follows young Mahito (Soma Santoki), a newly motherless child, as he moves to the countryside to live on his family’s estate. Burdened by grief and facing an overwhelming change to his family unit, Mahito ventures bravely into a strange world of fantasy and adventure, joined on his epic journey by a Grey Heron, voiced by Masaki Suda. A gorgeous, emotional rollercoaster that explores themes intrinsically linked to the lives of us all, The Boy and the Heron proves once and for all, if there were any doubters left, that Miyazaki is a master of his craft. A joyful, moving exploration of grief and humanity, the world of cinema owes an enormous debt of gratitude to Miyazaki, with this one of his best works to date. – Jake Hodges

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‘I Saw the TV Glow’ (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 84% | IMDb: 5.9/10

The viral horror that has had the world talking, I Saw the TV Glow follows Owen (Justice Smith), a suburban teenager who simply wants to get through this hellish, angsty period of life unscathed. However, when a classmate introduces him to a late-night supernatural TV show, his world changes forever. Packed full of horror stylings and neatly executed tropes, I Saw the TV Glow is the perfect thought-provoking existential horror. Jane Schoenbrun’s teen spookfest prioritizes indisputable fun and frenzy while also deftly exploring themes of art and identity, making for a truly unique experience. – Jake Hodges

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‘Civil War’ (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 81% | IMDb: 7.1/10

This A24 smash hit from director Alex Garland, the writer behind the genius zombie flick 28 Days Later, follows a team of military journalists who traverse a warring America to get to the White House before it is destroyed by rebel forces. Supported by a concept that feels scarily relevant, Civil War is a gripping political thriller overflowing with breathless action. If it wasn’t for being so politically on-the-nose (it feels almost like a damning foresight of a broken future), Civil War might have had a fair shot at the upcoming awards season. Instead, it will have to settle for boundless praise, although Garland and co. will likely not mind. – Jake Hodges

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