Here Are the Best Movies to Stream this Weekend on HBO Max, Including ‘Warfare’

Each week, a variety of new movies and older favorites become available on the streaming service-including attention-grabbing war dramas, critically acclaimed historical films, animated features, comedies, horror movies, and music documentaries. Here are ten recommendations, pulled from recent articles and lists, with the newest releases listed first to help you build your weekend watchlist.

Here you’ll find brief summaries of each movie, along with information about the people who made them-including the director, writers, producers, and main actors. We’ve listed the titles exactly as they appear on the streaming service, and every movie featured comes from their recent releases.

‘Warfare’ (2025)

‘Warfare’ is a gripping war drama that puts you right alongside a small group of U.S. soldiers during a dangerous mission. The film unfolds mostly as it happens, showing the team dealing with scouting, new instructions, and quick decisions while under attack. It focuses on the soldiers’ radio communications, how they work together, and the consequences of every choice they make.

This film, a collaboration between A24 and DNA Films, builds suspense through intimate camerawork and a richly detailed soundscape. It features a cast of rising stars, and the filmmakers incorporated the real-life experiences of veterans to create a realistic and impactful story.

‘The Woman King’ (2022)

‘The Woman King’ is set in the West African kingdom of Dahomey and tells the story of the Agojie, a powerful and unique all-female warrior unit. The film shows them training new soldiers, defending their kingdom, and dealing with increasing threats from other nations. It also explores the challenges of leadership both within the palace and on the battlefield.

Gina Prince-Bythewood directed this film, which was written by Dana Stevens based on a story by Maria Bello and Stevens. The movie features Viola Davis, Thuso Mbedu, Lashana Lynch, Sheila Atim, and John Boyega. Released by TriStar Pictures, the film includes impressive battle scenes with soldiers fighting using spears and swords, all carefully organized according to their leadership.

‘Lonely Castle in the Mirror’ (2022)

When seven students running from problems at school stumble upon a secret portal, they find themselves in a castle governed by a mysterious girl. Inside, they face challenges, strict rules, and the hope of having a single wish granted. Their search for a hidden key unravels a story of friendship, hidden truths, and what happens when they don’t follow the castle’s rules.

The animated film, directed by Keiichi Hara and adapted from Mizuki Tsujimura’s popular novel, was created by A-1 Pictures and first released in Japan by Toho before becoming available worldwide. Beautifully detailed artwork and a compelling mystery help bring the story to life through the performances of a talented voice cast as secrets are gradually revealed.

‘The House’ (2017)

When a couple loses the money they’d saved for their child’s college, they start a secret, high-stakes casino in their home, attracting friends and neighbors. ‘The House’ shows how their operation quickly gets out of control, leading to increasing security issues and conflicts with the police as they try to keep everything running.

The new comedy film is directed by Andrew J. Cohen, who co-wrote the script with Brendan O’Brien. It stars Will Ferrell and Amy Poehler, and features Jason Mantzoukas, Nick Kroll, and Michaela Watkins in important supporting roles. New Line Cinema and Gary Sanchez Productions produced the film.

‘Fireworks’ (2017)

‘Fireworks’ tells the story of a school day by the sea that takes a strange turn when a boy discovers a magical orb. This orb lets him rewind time, giving him chances to change how things play out with a friend who’s moving away. The film repeatedly revisits key moments, showing how even small choices can have big consequences and completely alter the story’s ending.

This animated film comes from Studio Shaft and is directed by Akiyuki Shinbo, alongside Nobuyuki Takeuchi. It’s based on the idea behind Shunji Iwai’s TV series. Hitoshi Ōne wrote the script, and the film stands out with its unique lighting and extended musical sequences that mark each time the story restarts.

‘Almost Christmas’ (2016)

‘Almost Christmas’ follows a large family gathering for the holidays, where a recently widowed father hopes they can reconnect with cherished traditions and navigate new romances and old conflicts. Over a single weekend, the film shows the humorous chaos of cooking, the strain of family dynamics, and the journey towards forgiveness and understanding.

I just finished watching this new film from Universal Pictures, and it’s a real mixed bag. David E. Talbert wrote and directed, and Will Packer produced, which already signals a certain energy. The cast is incredible – seriously, Danny Glover, Kimberly Elise, Mo’Nique, Gabrielle Union, Romany Malco, J.B. Smoove, Nicole Ari Parker, Omar Epps, and Jessie T. Usher all bring their A-game. It tries to balance heartfelt family moments with some pretty broad comedy, and honestly, it doesn’t always quite hit the mark, but the performances are strong enough to keep you engaged.

‘Veronica Mars’ (2014)

Veronica Mars returns to her hometown of Neptune after years away when a scandal involving Logan Echolls takes a dangerous turn. The case forces her to confront old social issues and powerful people in town, and she reconnects with characters from the original series as she investigates.

The movie, created by Rob Thomas (who also directed) and co-written with Diane Ruggiero-Wright, brings back the original cast – Kristen Bell, Jason Dohring, Enrico Colantoni, Chris Lowell, Ryan Hansen, and Tina Majorino. Warner Bros. produced and released the film after a highly successful crowdfunding campaign brought everyone together again.

‘The Cabin in the Woods’ (2012)

In ‘The Cabin in the Woods,’ five friends on a weekend trip find themselves manipulated by a hidden operation. The film cuts back and forth between the friends’ cabin and a high-tech facility where technicians are orchestrating events and unleashing terrifying creatures to control what happens.

As a big movie fan, I was really excited for this film, directed by Drew Goddard, who also co-wrote the script with the amazing Joss Whedon. The cast is fantastic – you’ve got Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth, Fran Kranz, Richard Jenkins, and Bradley Whitford all bringing their talents to the screen. It actually had a bit of a tricky road to release, with some financing hurdles delaying things, but Lionsgate eventually got it out there for everyone to see.

‘Splinter’ (2008)

A couple and a man recently released from prison find themselves stranded at a gas station when a dangerous parasite starts turning people into monstrous, spiky creatures. The film ‘Splinter’ focuses on their desperate attempts to stay safe inside the store as the situation rapidly worsens outside.

Toby Wilkins directed this independently made movie, which features Jill Wagner, Paulo Costanzo, and Shea Whigham. The film builds suspense through realistic creature effects and by taking place primarily in one location.

‘Selena’ (1997)

As a huge movie fan, I recently watched a film about Selena, the Tejano music icon, and it was really something. It tells the story of her life, from her beginnings with her family – who were so key to her success – all the way to becoming a major star. The movie gives you a peek behind the scenes, showing the hard work – the rehearsals, the tours, the recording – and especially how close she was to her dad, who also managed her career. It’s a really intimate look at how she became the artist we all remember.

As a huge Selena fan, I was so excited to see the biopic directed by Gregory Nava. Jennifer Lopez truly embodies Selena, and Edward James Olmos is fantastic as her father, Abraham Quintanilla. Jon Seda and Constance Marie also deliver great performances. What I really appreciated was that Warner Bros. worked closely with the family, using their stories and recreating her performances to tell Selena’s incredible journey.

Share your own weekend picks from these weekly additions in the comments!

2025-09-19 16:59