HBO Maxhas been renowned for its variety of phenomenal original series since its launch. It’s also managed to secure streaming rights to many highly popular titles from outside producers, such as theHarry Potterfranchise.
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10Dune
This award-winning science fiction epic is only the first half of the cinematic adaption of the eponymous 1965 novel, which is widely one of the most influential titles in science fiction literature and has inspired other famous works such as theStars Warsfranchise andNausicaä Of The Valley Of The Wind.
Like the novel,Duneheavily features Middle Eastern and Islamic motifs and takes place primarily on Arrakis, adesertplanet modeledafter the sandy plains the Middle East is known for (and where much of Arrakis’ landscape shots were filmed.
9Spirited Away
Considered not only to be one of the best animated films of all time but one of the greatest films of the 21st century,Spirited Awayis a masterpiece that everyone should watch at least once in their lives (though it’s difficult to not want to watch it many more times after).
Interweaving stunning animation, rich themes of being caught in the copious crossroads of life, and a soul-stirring soundtrack with the bewitching track, “One Summer’s Day”, this is a film that only a fool could dismiss as a silly cartoon.
8Scooby-Doo
The first live-action adaption of the iconic mystery cartoon series follows its beloved (disbanded) group of meddling kids as they attempt to unravel the mysteries of Spooky Island, a tropical resort getaway with a horror aesthetic that’s not all smoke and mirrors. Critics may not have appreciated this early 2000s time capsule of a film, but it has been remembered fondly by viewers in all its campy, colorful, and occasionally crass glory.
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If viewers enjoy pot jokes, purple go-go boots, and scooby snacks,give this spooky summerflick a watch.
7When Marnie Was There
Based on the British novel of the same name,When Marnie Was Theretells the story of Anna, whose foster parents send her to a seaside town over summer break in hopes of improving both her physical and mental health. On the picturesque coast side, Anna meets Marnie and begins a journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and forgiveness.
6Rugrats In Paris: The Movie
There is no need for viewers to watch Nickelodeon’sRugratstoenjoy its characters' Parisianadventure in this zany movie. With a playpen of catchy songs, vivid animation that shockingly holds up well decades later, plenty of preadolescent pronunciation errors, and a surprisingly heartwarming plot, this children’s film makes for a fun and nostalgic ride.
Although the Rugrats’ trip is less a dream vacation than a surreal fantasy, it still shows off a few of Paris’ most renowned spots (though tourists will be unlikely to witness Reptar clinging to Eiffel Tower during their sightseeing).
5Little Miss Sunshine
With its star-studded cast, it’s no wonder thissummer road trip filmtook home the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture. Its talented actors portray a family who, due to a lack of funds, are forced to travel in a faulty yellow Volkswagen van from New Mexico to Califonia so the youngest member, Olive, can compete in a child beauty pageant.
It’s more than a bumpy ride for the characters, but it’s one they get through together, and it’s in that message that the movie shines the brightest.
4Emma
Jane Austen fans who were disappointed byPersuasion’slack of affection for the regency era’s customs can soothe themselves with the ninety’s adaptation ofEmmawhich did add some modern flair to energize the 1815 novel but remained true to the essence of its social commentary on England’s upper class and its complex characters who very intentionally find themselves prone to silly choices and snobbish behaviors.
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Flowered with picnics, grand estates, andairy empire waist gowns,Emmawill satisfy any summer or Jane Austen cravings.
3The Batman
If viewers didn’t manage to see DC’s iconic dark knight in his latest return to the silver screen, they can experience the action thriller at home to scratch that summer blockbuster itch. This super detective noir is a balancing act for both the creators and Batman, as they walk the lines between man and hero, darkness and light,richand poor, hope and fear.
TheBatmanis only the beginning, with two HBO Max spin-off series currently in development and two sequel films on the horizon.
Intended to revitalize theMad Maxfilm franchise, this post-apocalyptic action film was acclaimed by critics and named one of the greatest action movies of all time by Rolling Stone. From costume design to performances to special effects, thisMad Max: Fury Roaddelivers on every element necessary for a great action film, including a surprising (and scarcely found in the genre) dose of female representation.
A prequel film,Furiosa, titled after the film’s heroine has been slated for a 2024 late spring release so catch the predecessor this summer.
1The Truman Show
Leading manJim Carrey was so enthusiasticabout this genre-blending film that he took an eight-million-dollar pay decrease. And for good reason, as this unique story about Truman, a man living in a manufactured picturesque town where hidden cameras broadcast his every waking moment to the outside world for their entertainment, has been lauded by critics and audiences alike.
With its manipulatively cozy seaside town,The Truman Showincites thefeeling of endless summer daysbut like the summer, and the camera lights, all things eventually come to an end.
