The best movies on Max right now (2025)

Max’s library is packed with content, easily making it among the go-to services for streaming the best movies. But the platform is far more than its sheer quantity of movies, offering audiences endless entertainment that runs the gamut of genres that fans love.

Viewers have everything they could want on Max, from fantasy and sci-fi to comedy and everything in between. Even so, this impressive diversity can spark some choice paralysis among subscribers. That’s where this list comes in, as the monthly updated guide highlights recent additions of some of the best movies on Max right now.

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In need of some more streaming recommendations? We also have guides to the best new movies to stream, the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Hulu, the best movies on Amazon Prime Video, and the best movies on Disney+ that are worth looking through.

Recently added to Max

  • The best movies on Max right now (1)

    Men in Black

    1997

  • The best movies on Max right now (2)

    GoodFellas

    1990

  • The best movies on Max right now (3)

    Ghostbusters

    1984

  • The best movies on Max right now (4)

    Carrie

    1976

Men in Black (1997)

The best movies on Max right now (5)

98m

Genre

Action, Adventure, Comedy, Science Fiction

Stars

Tommy Lee Jones, Will Smith, Linda Fiorentino

Directed by

Barry Sonnenfeld

Watch on max

Most moviegoers today likely don’t think of Men in Black as a Marvel adaptation, but it was one of the best of the 1990s. Adapted from Lowell Cunningham’s series from Marvel’s Malibu Comics imprint, the movie sees Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones as Agents J and K, investigating crimes related to extraterrestrials.

As part of the MiB, the duo gets thrown into a dangerous conspiracy involving a plot to kill two intergalactic ambassadors. Men in Black was quickly beloved for its quirky sci-fi premise, impressive visuals, and sense of humor. The dynamic between Smith and Jones was unexpectedly hysterical, which helped make MiB one of the most memorable sci-fi comedies of the decade.

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GoodFellas (1990)

The best movies on Max right now (6)

145m

Genre

Drama, Crime

Stars

Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci

Directed by

Martin Scorsese

Watch on max

Martin Scorsese’s catalog is an embarrassment of riches for crime-drama fans, and Goodfellas is among his best works. The movie sees Ray Liotta in the role of Henry Hill, a real-life mobster who joined the mafia from a young age and rose through its ranks. However, as Hill navigates the criminal organization’s cutthroat hierarchy, his life begins to unravel painfully.

Packed with a tremendous ensemble, including the legendary Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci in supporting roles, Goodfellas is an epic gangster-themed drama in scope. Scorsese once again depicts the ruthlessness of organized crime, making Hill’s inevitable fall from grace much more visceral.

Ghostbusters (1984)

The best movies on Max right now (7)

107m

Genre

Comedy, Fantasy

Stars

Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Sigourney Weaver

Directed by

Ivan Reitman

Watch on max

For an 1980s throwback, director Ivan Reitman’s original Ghostbustersmore than warrants a watch today. Starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis, this story sees the trio go around New York as ghost catchers. The group is in for a massive undertaking, as cellist Dana Barrett (Sigourney Weaver) hires them to rid her of supernatural entities.

Ghostbusters undoubtedly satisfies as a nostalgia trip for affectionate fans, but the film still stands on its own comedic and visual merits. The zany special effects and endlessly quotable dialogue make this a must-watch sci-fi comedy.

Carrie (1976)

The best movies on Max right now (8)

98m

Genre

Horror, Thriller

Stars

Sissy Spacek, Piper Laurie, Amy Irving

Directed by

Brian De Palma

Watch on max

If movie fans are feeling brave, Max is also home to plenty of terrific horror movies. Among them is Brian De Palma’s Carrie, an adaptation of Stephen King’s book, telling the story of an ostracized teenage girl. All of her tormenters would come to rue this soon enough, as Carrie begins to develop formidable supernatural powers.

Carrie is one of the best movies of the ‘70s, regardless of genre. It’s also one of the most influential supernatural horror films. The movie is ruthless and gruesome, creating one of the most iconic bloodbath sequences in horror. However, it also touches on darker coming-of-age themes with a humanized perspective.

Final Destination (2000)

The best movies on Max right now (9)

The best movies on Max right now (10)36%

The best movies on Max right now (11)6.7/10

98m

Genre

Horror

Stars

Devon Sawa, Ali Larter, Kerr Smith

Directed by

James Wong

Watch on max

Moviegoers should check out the original Final Destination on Max now that the sixth film, Final Destination Bloodlines, is set for release this May. Directed by James Wong, the story revolves around a group of teenagers who manage to cheat death after a would-be-lethal plane crash.

They survive thanks to Alex Browning (Devon Sawa) having a premonition of the disaster, but now Death itself is set to claim the lives of the teenagers meant to die in the accident. Final Destination received mostly negative reviews upon release, but it eventually became a 2000s horror cult classic. The cheesy teen-themed horror feel was seen as charming, along with its inventive premise of Death returning to claim what’s been promised.

Dredd (2012)

The best movies on Max right now (12)

95m

Genre

Action, Science Fiction

Stars

Karl Urban, Olivia Thirlby, Lena Headey

Directed by

Pete Travis

Watch on max

Dredd is one of the most underrated comic book movies of the 2010s, adapting the grim antihero for the big screen. The story is set in the year 2080, with most of the U.S. plunged into a hellish dystopia after a nuclear war. The titular Judge Dredd (Karl Urban) acts as judge, jury, and executioner of Mega-City One. Alongside his rookie partner Judge Anderson (Olivia Thirlby), Dredd must take down the resident drug lord (Lena Headey) of a 200-story apartment complex.

While the movie was unfortunately a box office dud, Dredd is a gripping comic book film and dystopic sci-fi thriller. As fans can see now in The Boys, Karl Urban has the acting chops to portray the grit of a character like Judge Dredd.

Taxi Driver (1976)

The best movies on Max right now (13)

114m

Genre

Crime, Drama

Stars

Robert De Niro, Jodie Foster, Cybill Shepherd

Directed by

Martin Scorsese

Watch on max

One of auteur director Martin Scorsese’s most revered movies, Taxi Driver, is a must for fans of crime movies. Robert De Niro plays Travis Bickle, the Marine veteran and taxi driver with a bleak perspective on life as he works night shifts. As the nights go on, Travis’ mental state steadily erodes, and he feels compelled to become a violent vigilante.

Taxi Driver is widely acclaimed as one of the best neo-noir films in cinema history, giving audiences an intense character-driven story from Travis’ POV. It’s easy for viewers to get engrossed and feel the dread of his inevitable descent into madness.

Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993)

The best movies on Max right now (14)

76m

Genre

Action, Animation, Crime, Mystery, Drama

Stars

Kevin Conroy, Dana Delany, Hart Bochner

Directed by

Bruce Timm, Eric Radomski

Watch on max

One of the most important movies in Batman’s mythos, Mask of the Phantasm, is back on Max. Co-directed by Batman: The Animated Series creators Eric Radomski and Bruce Timm, it sees the Dark Knight track down an elusive vigilante picking off Gotham’s mob bosses one by one. Meanwhile, the story alternates with Bruce Wayne’s attempts to reconcile with his old flame, Andrea Beaumont, who is back in the city.

Batman: Mask of the Phantasm is widely beloved and makes a case for being DC’s best animated movie — DCAU continuity or otherwise. Supported by masterclass performances by Kevin Conroy as the hero, Mark Hamill as the Joker, and Dana Delany as Andrea, the film delves into the nuances of Bruce’s motives while mixing action and tragic romance.

Mad Max (1979)

The best movies on Max right now (15)

91m

Genre

Adventure, Action, Thriller, Science Fiction

Stars

Mel Gibson, Joanne Samuel, Hugh Keays-Byrne

Directed by

George Miller

Watch on max

The first in what would become one of the best dystopian film series, Mad Maxremains a late-1970s classic today. In a not-so-distant-future Australia, director George Miller depicts a world where society has collapsed and violent gangs rule the landscape. Enter “Mad” Max Rockatansky, a former police officer who attempts to fight the forces that laugh in the face of justice.

While Mad Max initially received polarizing reviews for its brand of over-the-top violence, retrospective reception praised Miller’s gritty, imaginative take on a postapocalyptic Australia. Accompanied by elaborate stunts and action sequences that hold up, Mad Max is a must-watch for action movie fans.

The Usual Suspects (1995)

The best movies on Max right now (16)

106m

Genre

Drama, Crime, Thriller

Stars

Stephen Baldwin, Gabriel Byrne, Benicio del Toro

Directed by

Bryan Singer

Watch on max

Directed by Bryan Singer and written by current Mission: Impossible director Christopher McQuarrie, The Usual Suspects is a riveting crime story. The plot centers around the recount of con man Roger “Verbal” Kint (Kevin Spacey) as he tries to convince the feds that a legendary figure dubbed Keyser Söze drew his crew into a daring heist job.

What follows is a twisting tale about how most of Verbal’s crew were killed in a boat explosion and massacre. The Usual Suspects is a gripping story from beginning to end, largely praised for its unique narrative approach. Through flashbacks and narrated scenes, Usual Suspects’ clever use of non-linear storytelling builds up to one of the best plot twists in the medium.

Paddington (2014)

The best movies on Max right now (17)

96m

Genre

Comedy, Adventure, Family

Stars

Ben Whishaw, Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins

Directed by

Paul King

Watch on max

For a nice, family-friendly diversion from Max’s plethora of action, superhero, and crime thrillers, Paddington is a great palate cleanser. Director Paul King’s story follows the anthropomorphic bear’s (Ben Whishaw) exploits in London with the Brown family.

Settling into his new home after traveling from Peru’s jungles is far from smooth, as museum taxidermist Millicent Clyde hunts Paddington down to stuff him for the establishment’s collection. Paddington was met with universal praise for its impressive visuals and delightful tone. The titular protagonist has an irresistible charm to complement the movie’s witty sense of humor, easily resonating with kids and adults.

Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story (2024)

The best movies on Max right now (18)

104m

Genre

Documentary, Drama

Stars

Christopher Reeve, Dana Reeve, Matthew Reeve

Directed by

Ian Bonhôte, Peter Ettedgui

Watch on max

Creature Commandos on Max may have soft-launched James Gunn and Peter Safran’s DC Universe, but Warner Bros.’ superhero division already has a powerful documentary film to its name. Co-directed by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story chronicles the eponymous Superman actor’s rise to fame, tragic injury, and compassionate activism.

Aside from playing one of the most aspirational characters in pop culture, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story does a superb job of recounting the late actor’s heroics off the silver screen. From his loving family to social activism for disability health care research and rights, Super/Man is one of the most sincere documentaries of 2024.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024)

The best movies on Max right now (19)

105m

Genre

Comedy, Fantasy, Horror

Stars

Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Catherine O'Hara

Directed by

Tim Burton

Watch on max

Sequels to decades-old movies are far from novel at this point, but Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is worth the watch. On top of Tim Burton returning to the director’s chair, this sequel sees Winona Ryder’s Lydia Deetz, now grown and a mother, struggle to keep her family together in the aftermath of a tragedy.

The story takes a zanier turn when her daughter Astrid (Jenna Ortega) accidentally opens a portal to the afterlife — all while Michael Keaton’s Beetlejuice still haunts Lydia. It would have been easy for a movie like Beetlejuice Beetlejuice to become nothing more than nostalgia pandering, but this sequel feels like a welcome comeback. Burton’s eye for ghoulish, practical visuals and larger-than-life characters shines even 30-plus years after the original.

Dune: Part Two (2024)

The best movies on Max right now (20)

167m

Genre

Science Fiction, Adventure

Stars

Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson

Directed by

Denis Villeneuve

Watch on max

Following director Denis Villeneuve’s successful first adaptation of Frank Herbert’s sci-fi novel, he raises the bar with Dune: Part Two. Adapting roughly the second half of Herbert’s book, this sequel sees Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) and his mother, Lady Jessica, become more intertwined with the Fremen people of Arrakis. Together, they mount an offensive against the incursions of the ruthless House Harkonnen.

Dune: Part Two elevates everything that made the first movie successful, from its breathtaking scope, visuals, drama, and stellar ensemble performances. Villeneuve continues to demonstrate his intimate knowledge of the acclaimed source material, vividly giving this gritty sci-fi world life.

Unstoppable (2010)

The best movies on Max right now (21)

98m

Genre

Action, Thriller

Stars

Denzel Washington, Chris Pine, Rosario Dawson

Directed by

Tony Scott

Watch on max

For some high-octane action, 2010’s Unstoppableis a must-watch highlight from that decade. Starring Chris Pine as train conductor Will Colson and Denzel Washington as railroad engineer Frank Barnes, it follows the pair’s attempts to stop a runaway freight train.

Unstoppable is a great example of a movie that excels in its simplicity. The straightforward premise offers plenty of high-stakes thrills, and it’s led by the magnetic performances of its co-leads. Unstoppable knows exactly what it wants to be — a loud, nerve-wracking thriller — which is always an admirable quality in an action movie.

It (2017)

The best movies on Max right now (22)

135m

Genre

Horror

Stars

Jaeden Martell, Sophia Lillis, Jack Dylan Grazer

Directed by

Andy Muschietti

Watch on max

Looking for more Stephen King-inspired movies for the Halloween season? Wedl, 2017’s It adaptation is a fitting choice. Directed by Andy Muschietti (The Flash, Mama), the story follows seven kids stalked by the horrific titular entity (Bill Skarsgård) that takes the form of “Pennywise the Clown.”

On top of the supernatural terror the children endure, they’ll also be forced to do some serious introspection. Muschietti’s, It is praised as one of the best Stephen King adaptations, with the visuals and Skarsgård’s chilling performance being the highlights. In addition, the movie’s young ensemble does a great job of being the story’s emotional core.

Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)

The best movies on Max right now (23)

140m

Genre

Action, Adventure, Science Fiction

Stars

Michelle Yeoh, Stephanie Hsu, Ke Huy Quan

Directed by

Daniel Scheinert, Daniel Kwan

Watch on max

Everything Everywhere All at Oncewas another hit for A24. Directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, EEAAO focuses on Evelyn Quan Wang (Michelle Yeoh), a Chinese-American immigrant being audited by the IRS. That sets the stage for something far more absurd, as Evelyn delves into the multiverse, meeting her alternate selves and saving the world from an imposing being.

Everything Everywhere All at Once was universally lauded, winning seven of the 11 Academy Awards it was nominated for, including Best Picture, Best Actress (Yeoh), Supporting Actress (Jamie Lee Curtis), and Supporting Actor (Ke Huy Quan). It’s a frenetic combination of genres, including surreal sci-fi elements, martial arts, and outlandish comedy. However, it also poignantly touches on themes of familial trauma that make this bizarre concept feel intimate.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)

The best movies on Max right now (24)

161m

Genre

Adventure, Fantasy

Stars

Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson

Directed by

Chris Columbus

Watch on max

The Harry Potter franchise remains a blockbuster property, and the film series holds up. Director Chris Columbus’ sophomore entry, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, chronicles the young protagonist’s (Daniel Radcliffe) second year at Hogwarts.

With Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint) and Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) by his side, Harry faces a monstrosity unleashed from the chamber by the Heir of Salazar Slytherin. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets was well-received for its tasteful adaptation of the book and the young cast’s endearing performances. The story is notably darker than its predecessor, but thanks to the aforementioned cast, Columbus’ deft direction, and stunning visuals, Chamber of Secrets remains accessible to all audiences.

The Martian (2015)

The best movies on Max right now (25)

141m

Genre

Drama, Adventure, Science Fiction

Stars

Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Kristen Wiig

Directed by

Ridley Scott

Watch on max

Bizarre comedy-centric accolades aside, The Martianis a compelling sci-fi movie. The Ridley Scott movie stars Matt Damon as astronaut Dr. Mark Watney as he struggles to survive amid Mars’ grueling environment. The astronaut and botanist is left behind to fend for himself and is presumed dead for a time by NASA.

The Martian is one of director Ridley Scott’s best movies of the modern era, lauded for its breathtaking visuals and gripping plot. Even with a solid premise, it’s hard to imagine this sci-fi drama without Damon’s tension-filled performance, which sells Watney’s dire situation.

Sherlock Holmes (2009)

The best movies on Max right now (26)

129m

Genre

Action, Adventure, Crime, Mystery

Stars

Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law, Rachel McAdams

Directed by

Guy Ritchie

Watch on max

Between his Oscar-winning performance in Oppenheimer and his upcoming MCU return as Dr. Doom, Robert Downey Jr. remains among the biggest names in Hollywood. Outside of historical figures and comic book icons, he also played Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective in 2009’s Sherlock Holmes. Directed by Guy Ritchie, Sherlock Holmes follows the eccentric detective and his companion Dr. John Watson (Jude Law) as they attempt to stop a seemingly supernatural conspiracy.

Serial killer Lord Henry Blackwood (Mark Strong) attempts to use occult magic to control all of Britain. Sherlock Holmes’ character invites countless revisions, and Ritchie’s take balances the right amount of action, mystery, and humor to stand out. It’s the perfect combination for Downey Jr., which is why it’s no surprise this is one of his most memorable roles.

How to Train Your Dragon (2010)

The best movies on Max right now (27)

98m

Genre

Fantasy, Adventure, Animation, Family

Stars

Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, Craig Ferguson

Directed by

Dean DeBlois, Chris Sanders

Watch on max

While DreamWorks doesn’t quite have the same prestige status as Pixar, movies like How to Train Your Dragon prove it’s still a big name in animation. Directed by Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois, and based on Cressida Cowell’s children’s book, the movie is set in a fantasy world where Vikings have a hostile dynamic with dragons.

That changes when the teenage Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), in trying to become a dragon slayer, befriends one he names Toothless. How to Train Your Dragon earns its acclaim and is one of DreamWorks’ best movies to date. The film’s animation quality holds up remarkably, and its story is surprisingly dramatic and insightful thanks to its theme of humanity’s relationship with wildlife.

Lady Bird (2017)

The best movies on Max right now (28)

94m

Genre

Drama, Comedy

Stars

Saoirse Ronan, Laurie Metcalf, Tracy Letts

Directed by

Greta Gerwig

Watch on max

Greta Gerwig earned mainstream success with last year’s summer blockbuster Barbie, but her earlier catalog has other terrific movies like Lady Bird. Directed and written by Gerwig, the story follows a high school senior named Christine McPherson (Saoirse Ronan) who has a dysfunctional relationship with her mother, Marion (Laurie Metcalf).

The strong-willed and artistic Christine sees her dynamic with her mother further strained as she prepares to attend college. Lady Bird received critical acclaim for its deeply resonating plot. Gerwig’s direction and writing combined with Ronan and Metcalf’s charged performances make this an impactful coming-of-age drama.

Wanted (2008)

The best movies on Max right now (29)

110m

Genre

Action, Thriller, Crime

Stars

James McAvoy, Angelina Jolie, Morgan Freeman

Directed by

Timur Bekmambetov

Watch on max

An adaptation of Mark Millar and J. G. Jones’ comic book series, Wanted is a fast-paced action thriller. Directed by Timur Bekmambetov, the story sees Wesley Gibson (James McAvoy) try to join a secret society of elite assassins called the Fraternity.

He meets Fox (Angelina Jolie), an accomplished member of this organization, who recruits him to work under its leader Mr. Sloan (Morgan Freeman). Like Mark Millar’s source material, Wanted succeeds in its bombastic and action-first approach. The movie was critically well-received for the story’s quick pacing and the heavily stylized action set pieces, which must be seen to be believed.

The Iron Claw (2023)

The best movies on Max right now (30)

132m

Genre

Drama, History

Stars

Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson

Directed by

Sean Durkin

Watch on max

A24’s The Iron Claw is a tense biographical sports drama. Directed by Sean Durkin, it depicts the successes and tragedies of the Von Erich family in their pursuit of glory in professional wrestling. Starring Zac Efron as Kevin, The Bear‘s Jeremy Allen Whiteas Kerry, Harris Dickinson as David, and Stanley Simons as Mike, the movie portrays the brothers’ collective suffering from their father Fritz’s (Holt McCallany) grooming for the sport.

The Iron Claw earned immense praise for its emotionally raw storytelling and tasteful dramatization of the Von Erich family’s heart-wrenching story. Zac Efron’s performance was particularly lauded, cited as his career-best role and one of the most passionately played in the movie.

The Lighthouse (2019)

The best movies on Max right now (31)

109m

Genre

Drama, Fantasy, Thriller

Stars

Robert Pattinson, Willem Dafoe, Valeriia Karaman

Directed by

Robert Eggers

Watch on max

Director Robert Eggers’ The Lighthouse is one of the most inventive dramas in recent years. The plot follows 19th-century lighthouse keepers Ephraim Winslow (The Batman 2′s Robert Pattinson) and Thomas Wake (Poor Things‘ Willem Dafoe). The two find themselves stranded on a remote New England outpost after a devastating storm, with their mental faculties deteriorating from the isolation.

The Lighthouse earned widespread acclaim for its brutally tense atmosphere and commanding co-leading performances from Pattinson and Dafoe. The movie is an inspired mash-up of various genres, ranging from drama and thriller to psychological horror.

Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008)

The best movies on Max right now (32)

120m

Genre

Fantasy, Adventure, Action

Stars

Ron Perlman, Selma Blair, Doug Jones

Directed by

Guillermo del Toro

Watch on max

While the 2000s were understandably dominated by Spider-Man, the X-Men, and Batman, the Hellboy duology deserves more praise. Directed by Guillermo del Toro, Hellboy II: The Golden Army sees the titular superhero (Ron Perlman) and his team at the Bureau of Paranormal Research and Defense fight against the resurgent forces of a mythical underworld prince who is amassing the Golden Army to reclaim Earth from humanity.

Though it didn’t take the box office by storm, Hellboy II: The Golden Army garnered a strong critical reception for its imaginative take on this comic book universe. Del Toro is a well-known auteur director, and his eye for fantasy and horror combines perfectly with creator Mike Mignola’s weird world.

The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)

The best movies on Max right now (33)

121m

Genre

Drama, Thriller, Mystery

Stars

Colin Farrell, Nicole Kidman, Barry Keoghan

Directed by

Yorgos Lanthimos

Watch on max

From Poor Things director Yorgos Lanthimos, The Killing of a Sacred Deer is another thoughtfully made thriller. Famed cardiac surgeon Steven Murphy (Colin Farrell) lives a picturesque suburban life with his wife, Anna (Nicole Kidman). However, this idealized lifestyle of his is disrupted in eerie ways by Martin Lang (Saltburn‘s Barry Keoghan), a fatherless teenager with a connection to Steven’s past.

The Killing of a Sacred Deer received a positive critical reception for Lanthimos’ uncompromising approach to his surreal directing style. Complemented by an impressive main cast, the movie is an exciting horror-thriller with an unforgettable aesthetic.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001)

The best movies on Max right now (34)

152m

Genre

Adventure, Fantasy

Stars

Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson

Directed by

Chris Columbus

Watch on max

The Harry Potter franchise’s global juggernaut status is partly due to the film series’ critical success. Directed by Chris Columbus, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone — or Philosopher’s Stone, alternatively — adapts the first book in author J.K. Rowling’s acclaimed series. After living in his abusive uncle and aunt’s house, young Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) discovers he’s a powerful wizard and embarks on his first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

He meets various characters, including his endearing friends Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) and Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint). Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone was praised for its tasteful balance of faithfulness to the book and condensing it to fit into a satisfying feature-length runtime. More than that, its main cast was lauded for their charm and heartfelt performances.

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010)

The best movies on Max right now (35)

113m

Genre

Action, Comedy, Romance

Stars

Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Ellen Wong

Directed by

Edgar Wright

Watch on max

While it was a box-office bomb when it released in 2010, Scott Pilgrim vs. the Worlddeveloped into a cult classic thanks to its strong critical reception. Director Edgar Wright’s take on this universe does justice to Bryan Lee O’Malley’s comic book series, telling the story of musician Scott Pilgrim’s (Michael Cera) efforts to win a music competition and a record deal.

At the same time, Scott has to fend off the seven evil exes of his girlfriend, Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead). Though it has a straightforward plot, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World elevates it with colorful comic book-like imageryand lively performances. The movie leans into its larger-than-life nature and is complemented by its quirky humor.

Black Swan (2010)

The best movies on Max right now (36)

108m

Genre

Drama, Thriller, Horror

Stars

Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, Vincent Cassel

Directed by

Darren Aronofsky

Watch on max

Director Darren Aronofsky is famed for his frighteningly surreal brand of horror and thrills, with Black Swan being his highlight from the 2010s. Based on an original story by co-writer Andres Heinz, the plot centers around two ballet dancers, Nina Sayers (May December‘s Natalie Portman) and Lily (Mila Kunis), cast as the White and Black Swans, respectively, for a production of Swan Lake.

This premise unravels into something far bleaker when Nina succumbs to the relentless pressure of competition, leading to her struggling to separate fiction from reality and Lily becoming far more than her on-stage counterpart. Black Swan earned critical acclaim for its unsettlingly clever spin on Swan Lake and for using its premise to explore the concept of looming doppelgangers. Natalie Portman and Mila Kunis’ chemistry earned the strongest plaudits, as the former won the Academy Award for Best Actress.

RoboCop (1987)

The best movies on Max right now (37)

102m

Genre

Action, Thriller, Science Fiction

Stars

Peter Weller, Nancy Allen, Dan O'Herlihy

Directed by

Paul Verhoeven

Watch on max

Arguably actor Peter Weller’s most iconic theatrical role, 1987’s RoboCop is a classic sci-fi action movie of the era. The Paul Verhoeven-directed story follows police officer Alex Murphy (played by Weller) in a crime-infested Detroit set in a dystopic sci-fi future. The officer is murdered in a gang attack but is later revived by the corporation Omni Consumer Products to experiment with their titular “RoboCop” initiative.

Together with Ridley Scott’s 1982 film Blade Runner, RoboCop helped bolster the cyberpunk subgenre, with the movie having an impressive level of nuance. While the cartoonishly over-the-top action certainly draws appeal on its own, RoboCop uses its titular cyborg protagonist to explore themes of what it means to lose one’s humanity, as well as a bold critique of corporate corruption and the real-world economic policies driving the U.S. at the time.

The Lego Batman Movie (2017)

The best movies on Max right now (38)

104m

Genre

Animation, Action, Comedy, Family

Stars

Will Arnett, Zach Galifianakis, Michael Cera

Directed by

Chris McKay

Watch on max

Many of Batman’s best outing across DC Comics media has been exploring the gritty, street-level ventures. However, that’s not to say there isn’t any room for lighthearted campiness in the modern age, with Chris McKay’s The Lego Batman Movie being a strong testament to this. The movie focuses on Batman (played by Murderville‘s Will Arnett) as he attempts to overcome his fear and thwart the Joker’s latest scheme (played by Zach Galifianakis). The Lego Batman Movie is packed with witty humor, wildly entertaining performances, and a colorful revolving cast of characters.

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

The best movies on Max right now (39)

179m

Genre

Adventure, Fantasy, Action

Stars

Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Liv Tyler

Directed by

Peter Jackson

Watch on max

Regarded as the father of the genre, J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings books are seen as the benchmark of high fantasy. Thankfully, director Peter Jackson made beautiful work of adapting his epic to the screen, with The Fellowship of the Ring being a sweeping opening for the trilogy. This installment sets the stage with the Dark Lord Sauron seeking the One Ring to return his power before jumping forward in time to follow Frodo Baggins (played by Elijah Wood) and eight companions as they begin their journey to Mount Doom. Complete with a stunning ensemble cast including Ian McKellen, Sean Bean, and Viggo Mortensen, Fellowship was acclaimed for its rich story, superb performances, and show-stopping cinematography.

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)

The best movies on Max right now (40)

201m

Genre

Adventure, Fantasy, Action

Stars

Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Liv Tyler

Directed by

Peter Jackson

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Cementing the series’ status as one of the most outstanding film trilogies ever made, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King is a triumphant finish for Peter Jackson’s tenure in Middle-earth. The film continues with Bilbo Baggins (Elijah Wood) and Samwise Gamgee (Sean Astin) journeying to destroy the One Ring in the fires of Mount Doom.

Meanwhile, the remaining heroes, including Gandalf (Ian McKellen), Aragorn (Viggo Mortensen), and Legolas (Orlando Bloom), amass an army to battle with Sauron. Winning an astonishing 11 Academy Awards out of 11 nominations, The Return of the King was emphatically acclaimed for its faithfulness to Tolkien’s source material, stunning visuals, and powerfully emotional payoff.

The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

The best movies on Max right now (41)

The best movies on Max right now (42)78%

The best movies on Max right now (43)8.4/10

165m

Genre

Action, Crime, Drama, Thriller

Stars

Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Gary Oldman

Directed by

Christopher Nolan

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Following up on what’s widely considered to be the greatest live-action Batman movie is a tall order, but Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight Rises earns its victory lap. Taking place nearly a decade later, a Dark Knight Returns-esque Bruce Wayne comes out of retirement when the mysterious Bane leads a resurgent League of Shadows against Gotham City to finish what Ra’s al Ghul started in Batman Begins. Tom Hardy does an excellent job at putting together this imposing rendition of the hulking mastermind, and The Dark Knight Rises ultimately serves as a satisfying finish to Bruce Wayne’s character arc and Nolan’s celebrated Batman trilogy.

The Dark Knight (2008)

The best movies on Max right now (44)

152m

Genre

Drama, Action, Crime, Thriller

Stars

Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Michael Caine

Directed by

Christopher Nolan

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The movie that effectively became the gold standard for live-action Batman ventures, Christopher Nolan’s sophomore effort in the revered Dark Knight trilogy became the most acclaimed. The Dark Knight takes place in the titular superhero’s second year of cleaning up the streets of Gotham City, which has seen organized crime take a stranglehold over it for decades. However, the Clown Prince of Crime makes his presence known to attempt to upend that progress through sheer chaos. In part thanks to the dynamic between Christan Bale’s take on the brooding hero and Heath Ledger’s mesmerizing rendition of the Joker, The Dark Knight succeeds as one of the best superhero movies to date, as well as a compelling Michael Mann-like crime thriller.

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)

The best movies on Max right now (45)

179m

Genre

Adventure, Fantasy, Action

Stars

Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Liv Tyler

Directed by

Peter Jackson

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Following up on the widespread critical acclaim of director Peter Jackson’s adaptation of The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers successfully builds upon its predecessor’s strengths. This epic fantasy adventure is masterfully structured into three parallel storylines: Frodo and Sam continue their trek across Middle-earth to destroy the One Ring in the fires of Mordor; Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, and the revived Gandalf arrive at the war-ravaged nation of Rohan to help defeat the invading army of Sauron; and Pippin and Merry escape the orcs’ imprisonment and, with the help of Treebeard, coordinate the attack on Sauron’s fortress at Isengard. Bolstered by a talented ensemble cast, The Two Towers is as riveting a watch now as it was in 2002.

Batman Begins (2005)

The best movies on Max right now (46)

140m

Genre

Action, Crime, Drama

Stars

Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Liam Neeson

Directed by

Christopher Nolan

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Christopher Nolan revitalized the DC Comics icon for the big screen with this origin story. Going back to the more grounded, street-level roots of the character, Batman Begins stands as one of the most triumphant Hollywood reboots. Christian Bale brings forth a darker, grittier take on the Dark Knight in a story that’s truer to the source material. Nor does it stray far from the inherent fantastical nature of the comic book medium, with Liam Neeson giving a convincing portrayal of international terrorist Ra’s al Ghul and Cillian Murphy in tow as the mad doctor known as the Scarecrow. Batman Begins paved the way for arguably one of the best modern movie trilogies.

The Batman (2022)

The best movies on Max right now (47)

The best movies on Max right now (48)72%

The best movies on Max right now (49)8.2/10

pg-13

176m

Genre

Crime, Mystery, Thriller

Stars

Robert Pattinson, Zoë Kravitz, Paul Dano

Directed by

Matt Reeves

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Let the era of Battinson begin! The Batman is a complete reboot of the Dark Knight, with Robert Pattinson in the title role. In director Matt Reeves’ vision for Gotham City, Batman is still early in his career when he goes up against Riddler (Paul Dano), a madman who may bring down the entire city. While Batman trusts Jim Gordon (Jeffrey Wright), he isn’t so sure about Selina Kyle (Zoë Kravitz), a cat burglar who has her own agenda. But if Batman wants to save Gotham, he will have to become more than just a vigilante.

Dune (2021)

The best movies on Max right now (50)

The best movies on Max right now (51)74%

The best movies on Max right now (52)8.1/10

155m

Genre

Science Fiction, Adventure

Stars

Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac

Directed by

Denis Villeneuve

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Director Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of Frank Herbert’s Dune was one of the few true hits of the pandemic era. And now that the film is back on Max, viewers can see why it received several Oscar nominations as well. Timothée Chalamet portrays Paul Atreides, the heir of House Atreides and seemingly a figure of destiny. The universe is in Paul’s hands, or at least it was until his house was betrayed by the emperor and attacked by House Harkonnen. Now, Paul and his mother, Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson), must find a way to survive on the desert planet, Arrakis/Dune, and reclaim the power that was once theirs.

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