The Best Movies to Watch on HBO Max in December 2025

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HBO Max is ending the year strong with a great collection of animated movies and classic films arriving in December. Subscribers can enjoy a wide variety of titles, including exciting new takes on superhero stories and cherished holiday traditions. They’re also adding highly-rated anime, popular comedies, and compelling dramas, making it a perfect month for family entertainment or cozying up for a movie night.

‘Aztec Batman: Clash of Empires’ (2025)

Premiering December 22, 2025, this animated movie offers a fresh take on the Batman story, setting it within the vibrant world of ancient Mexico. It follows Yohualli Coatl, a young Aztec warrior who draws power from a temple dedicated to the bat god to defend his people. He’s forced to lead a fight against Spanish invaders and their advanced weapons in a struggle to survive. The film combines historical storytelling with exciting superhero action, offering DC fans a visually stunning and unique experience.

‘Ne Zha 2’ (2025)

The popular Chinese animated film is getting a sequel, launching on December 20, 2025. The new movie continues the story of Ne Zha, a defiant god, as he confronts fresh dangers and strong enemies. Audiences will enjoy stunning visuals that blend classic Chinese art with today’s computer animation. The story explores Ne Zha’s difficult fate as he fights to keep his family and friends safe.

‘Music Box: Wizkid: Long Live Lagos’ (2025)

I’m so excited for the new Music Box documentary coming out on December 11, 2025! It’s all about Wizkid, and how he became this huge star and really put Afrobeats on the map worldwide. It looks like it’s going to be a really in-depth look at his life – we get to see behind the scenes at his incredible concerts and even get a peek into how he makes his music in Lagos. As someone who loves music and learning about its history, I think this documentary will be amazing – it’s a story about how one artist connected African music with the rest of the world.

‘The Christmas Showdown’ (2025)

Get ready for a funny and heartwarming holiday movie arriving on December 7, 2025! It’s about two families who are rivals and compete to have the best Christmas lights in town. Their competition gets out of hand, but they’re forced to team up when something unexpected happens. If you’re looking for a new, feel-good movie to watch this holiday season, this one is full of laughs and sweet moments.

‘It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley’ (2025)

On December 4, 2025, fans can see a moving film about the life of the iconic singer-songwriter Jeff Buckley. The movie looks at his lasting influence and the impact of his one and only studio album. Through interviews with those who worked with him and rare footage, the film portrays a remarkably talented artist whose life was cut short, offering a heartfelt tribute to his incredible voice and deeply emotional songs.

‘This Is Spinal Tap’ (1984)

This beloved comedy, directed by Rob Reiner, starts streaming on December 12, 2025. It’s a funny, made-up documentary that follows a struggling British heavy metal band, Spinal Tap, on a disastrous American tour. The film cleverly pokes fun at the over-the-top personalities and ridiculousness of the rock music world, using a lot of unscripted conversation. It’s become a classic, famous for its memorable lines and realistic portrayal of touring life.

‘The Colors Within’ (2024)

As a huge anime fan, I’m already circling December 1, 2025! I’m so excited for this new movie from Naoko Yamada. It’s about a high school girl who has this incredible ability to see people’s feelings as colors. She can’t always find the words to express what she’s feeling, so she starts a band with some friends to share those emotions through music. And the animation style? It’s gorgeous – really soft and watercolor-like, which just feels perfect for a story about growing up and finding your voice through music.

‘Paul Anka: His Way’ (2025)

A new documentary about pop music legend Paul Anka will debut on December 1, 2025. The film explores his life and career, from his beginnings as a teenage heartthrob to his work as a successful songwriter for artists like Frank Sinatra. Featuring honest interviews and never-before-seen performances, it offers a look at what made him a lasting figure in the entertainment world. Anyone fascinated by classic songwriting and the history of show business will find this film captivating.

‘X-Men: First Class’ (2011)

This exciting prequel reimagines the origins of the X-Men, arriving on December 1, 2025. Set during the Cold War, it shows how Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr become friends while learning about their abilities. Together, they must gather a team of young mutants to prevent a nuclear war planned by the dangerous Hellfire Club. Critics are highlighting the film’s powerful acting and its exploration of the growing tensions that will eventually split the X-Men apart.

‘The Goonies’ (1985)

Get ready for a classic adventure! When a group of unlikely friends discovers an old map, they set off on a treasure hunt to save their neighborhood. Their journey takes them through dangerous underground caves filled with traps and leads them face-to-face with a family of criminals. This heartwarming and funny movie celebrates the power of friendship and the joy of exploring, making it a beloved favorite for audiences of all ages. It arrives on December 1, 2025.

‘Hidden Figures’ (2016)

This moving true story arrives on December 1, 2025. It follows three incredibly talented African-American women who worked at NASA and were essential to launching astronaut John Glenn into space. The film shows the challenges they faced due to racism and sexism, while also celebrating their vital role in America’s space program. It’s an inspiring story about how their dedication and intelligence helped change history.

‘Wedding Crashers’ (2005)

This hilarious comedy, released on December 1, 2025, follows two divorce mediators who spend their spare time crashing parties to find dates. Their carefree bachelor lives are turned upside down when one of them falls for the daughter of a famous politician. The film is known for its great chemistry between the two main actors and a string of wild, funny scenes. It’s considered a standout R-rated comedy from the 2000s.

‘Miss Congeniality’ (2000)

Sandra Bullock plays a determined FBI agent who goes undercover as a beauty pageant contestant in this funny and exciting action-comedy, coming to theaters December 1, 2025. To blend in, she gets a total makeover while secretly trying to track down a dangerous terrorist. The movie combines hilarious moments as she adjusts to her new surroundings with a compelling mystery. Audiences will love watching her character transform and form unexpected friendships with the other contestants.

‘Atomic Blonde’ (2017)

Charlize Theron gives a powerful performance in this new spy thriller, available to stream on December 1, 2025. Set during the Cold War, the film follows a top MI6 agent sent to Berlin on a dangerous mission to retrieve an important file and dismantle a dangerous spy network. Known for its striking visuals and thrilling fight scenes, the movie provides a raw and visually dynamic glimpse into the life of intelligence operatives.

‘Girls Trip’ (2017)

This hilarious comedy, debuting December 1, 2025, follows four close friends on a trip to New Orleans for the Essence Festival. Over a weekend of fun, they reconnect with their carefree sides and confront past issues, putting their decades-long friendship to the test. With fantastic performances and a story about the power of sisterhood and loyalty, the film quickly became a box office success thanks to its relatable humor and genuine emotional depth.

‘Perfect Blue’ (1997)

Directed by Satoshi Kon, this intense psychological thriller will be released on December 1, 2025. It follows a pop singer who tries to become an actress, but is haunted by a dangerous stalker. As unsettling murders happen nearby, she begins to question what’s real. The animated film is famous for its creepy mood and its insightful look at the dark side of fame.

‘Millennium Actress’ (2002)

On December 1, 2025, a new film from the acclaimed director Satoshi Kon will be released. It follows two filmmakers as they try to document the life story of a legendary, but private, actress. As she shares her memories, they become intertwined with the characters she’s played, offering a fascinating look at Japanese film history. The movie is a beautiful and visually impressive tribute to both filmmaking and the enduring strength of memory.

‘Wolf Children’ (2012)

I’m really excited about Mamoru Hosoda’s new animated film coming out December 1, 2025! It’s a beautiful story about a mother raising two kids who are part wolf after their father passes away. She decides to move to the countryside hoping they can freely explore who they are, away from everyone else. From what I’ve heard, it really gets at the heart of what it means to be a parent – all the joys and the sadness of watching your kids grow up.

‘Christmas with the Kranks’ (2004)

As a big fan of holiday movies, I’m really looking forward to this one! It stars Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis, and it’s coming to the streaming service on December 1st, 2025. The story is about a couple who plan a Christmas-free cruise, but their daughter unexpectedly decides to come home, forcing them to quickly throw together a festive celebration. It sounds like a really fun, lighthearted comedy – perfect for families who want a good laugh during the holidays. I’m expecting some classic neighborhood shenanigans as they try to pull it all off in just 24 hours!

‘The Color Purple’ (1985)

Directed by Steven Spielberg, this moving film is based on Alice Walker’s novel and will be released on December 1, 2025. It follows Celie’s life over many years as she overcomes hardship and prejudice in the American South. Whoopi Goldberg delivers a remarkable performance as a woman finding her strength and sense of self. The film is a powerful and emotional story about the enduring power of the human spirit.

Tell us which movie you are most excited to watch this December in the comments.

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2025-12-05 06:17