Lesser-Known HBO Max TV Shows That Are Totally Worth Watching

Max has a huge collection of shows, and it’s about much more than just its popular blockbusters and fantasy series. If you’re willing to look beyond the well-known titles, you’ll find a wealth of highly-rated dramas and original comedies that don’t always get the attention they deserve. This list showcases fifty series that are worth watching for their creative stories and great acting. These lesser-known shows include international hits and fan favorites from Max’s early, more experimental days.

‘The Other Two’ (2019–2023)

Brooke and Cary Dubek are working hard to achieve their dreams, but their younger brother, Chase, unexpectedly becomes famous online. The show playfully and critically examines the strange world of fame and the entertainment business. It follows the siblings as they deal with their own career setbacks while also trying to help their brother and mother. Expect a mix of touching family scenes and witty commentary on popular culture.

‘South Side’ (2019–2022)

This comedy follows two recent community college graduates as they hustle to build a business while working at a rent-to-own store in Chicago. The show is full of life and color, showcasing a diverse and quirky group of characters who live on the South Side. It’s fast-paced and funny, mixing planned jokes with realistic conversations, to give viewers a genuine and hilarious glimpse into city life.

‘Somebody Somewhere’ (2022–)

Sam Miller goes back to her hometown in Kansas after facing a difficult time in her life, including the loss of her sister. There, she connects with a group of unique individuals who offer her support and a sense of belonging. The show is a heartwarming story about the power of friendship and discovering who you are, even in the most surprising circumstances. Critics have praised its sensitive portrayal of emotions and its lighthearted, comforting humor.

‘Starstruck’ (2021–)

This series follows a young woman in London who unexpectedly begins a relationship with a famous movie star. Their connection is complicated by their very different lives and careers, and the show is a funny, modern take on classic romantic comedies. The strong connection between the two main actors is what makes the story so engaging and witty.

‘Los Espookys’ (2019–2022)

In a vibrant Latin American setting, a group of friends turns their passion for horror into a strange and unusual business: creating fake supernatural events. They stage everything from exorcisms to hauntings for clients with unique needs. The show blends fantastical elements with dry wit, offering a truly original and funny experience. Its striking visuals and bizarre storylines set it apart as a standout comedy.

‘High Maintenance’ (2016–2020)

A delivery driver nicknamed “The Guy” bikes around Brooklyn, bringing cannabis to a wide range of customers. Each episode peeks into the personal lives of New Yorkers from all sorts of backgrounds. The show is structured as a series of short stories, offering touching and unexpected looks at different people. It brilliantly portrays what it means to be human through brief encounters.

‘Betty’ (2020–2021)

This show follows a group of young women skateboarders as they find their place in New York City’s skate scene, which is traditionally dominated by men. It’s a story about their friendships and how they create a community for themselves. The show has a chill vibe and beautiful visuals of the city, focusing more on the characters and the overall mood than on big, dramatic conflicts.

‘How to with John Wilson’ (2020–2023)

John Wilson’s documentary series films everyday life in New York City, starting with simple how-to topics. These explorations quickly become surprising and insightful, uncovering relatable truths about people and their behavior. The show offers a funny and thought-provoking look at the strange and wonderful things that make up modern life.

‘Joe Pera Talks with You’ (2018–2021)

This show features a Michigan choir teacher who talks directly to the audience about everyday things – things like iron or what she had for breakfast. It’s intentionally slow-paced, a refreshing change from most comedies on TV today. Through the genuinely kind main character, the series looks at the beauty of community and appreciating life’s little moments. It’s a comforting and feel-good show that offers viewers a relaxing break.

‘Industry’ (2020–)

The series follows recent graduates vying for coveted full-time jobs at a top investment bank in London. It portrays the cutthroat world of international finance, where ethical lines are often blurred. The characters deal with difficult office dynamics and personal temptations as they strive to succeed, offering a raw and compelling look at ambition and what it takes to survive in the corporate world.

‘Tokyo Vice’ (2022–2024)

An American journalist goes undercover within the ethics division of the Tokyo police department. He delves into the city’s dark and vibrant criminal world, exposing corruption along the way. Inspired by real events, the series is visually striking with a gripping storyline. It explores the challenges of cultural differences and the risks involved in pursuing the truth.

‘Sort Of’ (2021–)

This series follows Sabi Mehboob, a millennial who identifies as gender-fluid, as they juggle working as a bartender and caring for a wealthy family. It’s a funny and heartfelt story about finding yourself and where you belong, exploring themes of change and authenticity in today’s world. Sabi also deals with the challenges of dating and meeting family expectations while staying true to who they are, offering a relatable look at what it means to be an adult now.

‘I Hate Suzie’ (2020–2022)

The series centers on a young actress and former pop star whose life falls apart after private photos are leaked online. It realistically portrays her emotional journey – from shock and despair to attempts to rebuild her career and relationship. The show is a powerful and intense look at the devastating effects of public humiliation and how it impacts one’s sense of self. The actress delivers a strikingly honest and captivating performance.

‘Search Party’ (2016–2022)

A group of four self-focused friends in their twenties find themselves caught up in a mystery when someone from their college days disappears. What starts as a darkly funny series gradually transforms into a suspenseful psychological thriller, and ultimately, a satirical horror story. The show cleverly examines modern millennial life and our need for approval, all while keeping viewers guessing with unexpected plot twists and compellingly imperfect characters.

‘Bored to Death’ (2009–2011)

After a breakup, a writer down on his luck starts working as a private investigator – without a license. He enlists the help of his best friend and his quirky editor to tackle small cases throughout Brooklyn. The show is a fun mix of classic detective stories, literary jokes, and stoner humor, all brought to life by the fantastic connection between the three main actors and a cool, slightly lighter take on the noir style.

‘Enlightened’ (2011–2013)

I’ve been completely captivated by this show about a high-powered executive who has a very public meltdown and then goes away to find herself. She comes back determined to be a better person, both at work and in her personal life, which is where things get really interesting – and often hilariously messy! It’s often uncomfortable to watch, but I find myself really rooting for her, even when she’s making things worse. It’s such a clever and thoughtful series, and it’s no wonder critics love it – the writing is just so layered and realistic. It really feels like a raw, honest look at trying to be good in a world that doesn’t always reward it.

‘Getting On’ (2013–2015)

This show offers a realistic and often funny look at the day-to-day life of a hospital wing for elderly patients. It focuses on the challenges of dealing with paperwork and the unique personalities of the patients and nurses who work there. The humor is subtle, relying on realistic situations and observations, and the series gently critiques the way healthcare works in America.

‘Looking’ (2014–2016)

This show follows three gay friends in San Francisco as they pursue their careers, navigate relationships, and simply try to live their lives. It offers a realistic and personal portrayal of what it’s like to be gay today, avoiding common clichés and instead focusing on the complexities of modern connection. The show is also visually stunning, beautifully showcasing the distinctive look and feel of the San Francisco Bay Area.

‘Carnivàle’ (2003–2005)

Set against the backdrop of the Dust Bowl during the Great Depression, this series follows a traveling carnival and an unfolding conflict between good and evil. It features a detailed and imaginative mythology centered around powerful beings and supernatural abilities. Known for its stunning visuals and immersive storytelling, the show was a pioneer in the realm of serialized fantasy dramas.

‘Treme’ (2010–2013)

Following Hurricane Katrina, the people of New Orleans are working to rebuild their lives and preserve the city’s vibrant culture. This series showcases how music and food are central to the city’s healing process, telling multiple stories of survival and strength through a diverse cast. Ultimately, it’s a heartfelt tribute to the enduring spirit of New Orleans.

‘Show Me a Hero’ (2015)

A newly elected mayor in Yonkers faces strong opposition from the public and a court order to build affordable housing in predominantly white areas. The series delves into the long-standing racial and economic divides within the city, based on a real-life story. It provides an in-depth look at local government and the difficult consequences faced by those who fight for what they believe in – a story that is both heartbreaking and compelling.

‘We Are Who We Are’ (2020)

This series follows two American teens as they navigate life, love, and self-discovery while living on a military base in Italy. It beautifully captures the confusing and passionate experiences of being a teenager, set against a distinctive and atmospheric backdrop. The show uses a slow, deliberate pace and rich sound to draw viewers into the characters’ emotional worlds, offering a visually stunning and poetic look at the challenges of growing up.

‘Irma Vep’ (2022)

A famous American actor goes to France to film a new version of an old, silent vampire movie. As filming gets increasingly chaotic, the line between what’s real and what’s part of the movie starts to disappear. The film playfully mocks the movie business while also exploring what art truly is, with a story that’s often strange and dreamlike.

‘Rain Dogs’ (2023)

This series follows a single mother from a working-class background as she strives to create a secure future for her daughter, all while dealing with a complicated and damaging friendship with a much wealthier man. It’s a raw and funny look at the challenges of poverty and the drive to succeed, featuring flawed characters who feel incredibly real. The show presents a unique and realistic portrayal of what family can look like.

‘Landscapers’ (2021)

Okay, so this miniseries really grabbed me. It centers around a seemingly ordinary British couple who suddenly find themselves suspects in a murder investigation – two bodies are found in their garden, naturally. What’s fascinating is how the story unfolds. The filmmakers use these incredibly stylized, almost dreamlike sequences to show us how the couple sees their relationship – it’s like peering into their romanticized version of events. It’s based on a true crime, but don’t expect a straightforward procedural. There’s a definite sense of dark humor and whimsy at play. And visually? It’s stunning. It’s so inventive and different from anything else in the crime drama genre – it really sets itself apart.

‘The Third Day’ (2020)

A man and a woman separately arrive on a remote island near Britain and meet its unusual inhabitants. The story unfolds in two parts, blending themes of loss with classic folk horror. The show builds a feeling of unease and confusion through its striking visuals and is a psychologically driven thriller featuring powerful acting.

‘My Brilliant Friend’ (2018–)

This series tells the story of two girls who become close friends while growing up in a working-class neighborhood of Naples, Italy. Over several decades, it follows their personal and intellectual journeys alongside the evolving face of Italy itself. Based on a beloved book series, the show beautifully portrays the power of female friendship with incredibly realistic sets and acting that truly capture each era.

‘Gentleman Jack’ (2019–2022)

In 1832, Anne Lister returns to her family estate in Halifax with a plan to rebuild it and find a wife. The show is inspired by her secret diaries and portrays her defiance of traditional expectations for women. It’s a lively and engaging historical drama that feels surprisingly contemporary. Anne Lister often speaks directly to the audience, letting us in on her private thoughts.

‘Perry Mason’ (2020–2023)

Set in 1930s Los Angeles, this series follows a struggling private detective who uncovers widespread corruption while investigating a high-profile kidnapping. It’s a fresh take on a familiar legal figure, presented with the dark, realistic style of classic film noir. The show explores the lasting effects of war and the complex racial issues of the time, all brought to life with beautiful period details and a captivatingly somber mood.

‘Julia’ (2022–2023)

Okay, so I just watched this movie, and it’s fantastic! It tells the story of Julia Child and how she basically revolutionized cooking on TV. It’s not just about the recipes, though – it’s a really heartwarming look at how she became famous and the amazing relationship she had with her husband. What I really appreciated was that it didn’t shy away from the fact that she was a woman breaking into a world run by men, which was tough back then. Honestly, the whole thing is just charming, and the food? Forget about it – beautifully styled and makes you want to run to the kitchen immediately!

‘Vice Principals’ (2016–2017)

This dark comedy follows two resentful high school vice principals who team up to sabotage their new principal – the one who got the job they both believed should have been theirs. As their schemes escalate, the show becomes increasingly wild and violent, offering a sharp and funny look at fragile egos and small-minded competition. The entire story unfolds over two fast-paced, chaotic seasons.

‘The Comeback’ (2005–2014)

As a total movie and TV buff, I stumbled upon this show starring Valerie Cherish, a sitcom actress trying to get her career back on track with a reality series. What’s really interesting is it’s done as a mockumentary, and it doesn’t shy away from showing the really tough stuff – the embarrassment and ageism women deal with in Hollywood. Honestly, it’s sometimes hard to watch because things get so awkward for her, but that’s also what makes it so good. It quickly gained a dedicated following because it’s a really sharp and funny satire.

‘Hello Ladies’ (2013–2014)

This show follows a clumsy Englishman trying to find love in Los Angeles, but he mostly just embarrasses himself. It’s funny because he’s constantly misreading situations and desperately wants people to like him. The series cleverly flips the usual romantic comedy trope of the charming lead, showing a much more awkward and relatable character.

‘Family Tree’ (2013)

After losing his job and going through a breakup, a man receives a strange box that leads him to explore his family tree. He embarks on a journey to meet unusual relatives and learn about the hidden stories of his ancestors. The show feels refreshingly spontaneous and realistic, and it’s a heartwarming and funny story about discovering where you come from.

‘Sally4Ever’ (2018)

The series follows a woman who shakes up her predictable life by leaving her partner for a captivating but troubled artist she encounters on the train. Their relationship quickly becomes intense and unhealthy, explored through a darkly funny and often uncomfortable lens. The show boldly examines themes of love, power, and control, and is known for its uniquely British style of awkward humor.

‘Animals.’ (2016–2018)

The animated series playfully imagines the inner lives of New York City’s rats, pigeons, and bedbugs, giving them relatable problems with life and relationships. It’s a unique comedy with a distinctive, low-budget visual style and realistic, conversational dialogue. The show also boasts a fantastic lineup of guest stars from the comedy scene, and its sketches are often both strange and surprisingly touching.

‘The Life & Times of Tim’ (2008–2012)

This animated show follows an ordinary office worker who repeatedly finds himself in awkward and unfortunate situations, often due to his own mistakes. It’s known for its simple, unpolished animation and realistic, off-the-cuff dialogue. The humor comes from finding the funny side of everyday office life and social events. Fans love its subtle, strangely hypnotic comedic style that relies on repetition.

‘Doom Patrol’ (2019–2023)

This show follows a group of damaged and rejected superheroes who unite to defend a world that doesn’t want their help. It fully embraces the strange and unusual side of comic books, featuring things like streets that can think and characters with unique quirks. The series skillfully mixes over-the-top humor with genuinely moving explorations of the characters’ inner struggles and journeys toward healing. Ultimately, it’s a touching story about dealing with trauma and finding a path to recovery.

‘Banshee’ (2013–2016)

A former convict goes into hiding in a quiet Amish community in Pennsylvania by pretending to be the local sheriff. While trying to escape the mobsters he wronged in the past, he starts dispensing his own form of justice. The show is packed with intense action sequences and a gritty, fast-paced story, offering both thrilling fights and complicated relationships between characters.

‘The Knick’ (2014–2015)

Set in a New York hospital in the early 1900s, this series follows a gifted surgeon battling drug addiction as he pioneers new medical techniques. It realistically portrays the often-brutal world of surgery before antibiotics were discovered. The show features a modern, energetic electronic soundtrack that clashes with the historical setting, and the fast-paced direction pulls viewers right into the hectic hospital atmosphere.

‘Quarry’ (2016)

In 1972, a Marine comes home to Memphis after serving in Vietnam, only to find that his community rejects him. To make a living and provide for his wife, he gets involved with a group of hired killers. The show is a gripping, slow-paced crime drama that really captures the feeling of the time, focusing on the characters and building tension throughout.

‘The Baby’ (2022)

This horror-comedy series centers on a woman who suddenly becomes a mother to a baby with a sinister secret: it appears to control those around it, and tragedy follows in its wake. The show cleverly uses supernatural elements to examine the anxieties and pressures of motherhood, challenging traditional ideas about what it means to be a mother. It’s a wild ride that swings between darkly funny moments and genuinely frightening scenes.

‘Rap Sh!t’ (2022–2023)

This show follows two old high school friends from Miami who reconnect and start a rap group together. It tells their story of climbing the music industry ladder, using creative visuals like social media feeds and phone screens. The series feels authentic, showing the hard work it takes to succeed, and perfectly captures the energy and voice of today’s young generation.

‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ (2019–2023)

This comedy series features a talented group of Black women performing both realistic and wildly imaginative sketches. It’s groundbreaking as the first show of its kind created by and starring African American women, and is known for its polished look and memorable, returning characters. Viewers praise the show for its clever writing and fast-paced humor.

‘Random Acts of Flyness’ (2018–)

Terence Nance’s show is a unique and experimental program that mixes documentary footage, animation, and music. It tackles complex issues of race and gender in a creative and unconventional way, breaking away from typical TV structures to offer a thought-provoking experience for viewers.

‘Gomorrah’ (2014–2021)

This gripping series dives into the harsh reality of the Camorra, a Neapolitan crime syndicate, as they battle for power from within and fight off both rival gangs and the police. It’s a raw and unflinching portrayal of the organization, highlighting the constant violence and the deep-seated lack of trust among its members. Many consider it to be one of the greatest crime dramas ever produced internationally.

Tell us which of these hidden gems you plan to watch first in the comments.

2025-12-14 15:20