5 must-watch HBO Max shows that are absolute masterpieces

5 must-watch HBO Max shows that are absolute masterpieces Credit: Lucas Gouveia/How-To Geek By  Keeley Brooks Published May 30, 2026, 3:30 PM EDT Keeley is a streaming content author and expert at How-To Geek with over a decade's experience writing about film and television . Here, her focus is on streaming content lists and guides. Additionally, Keeley also writes film and television reviews, recaps, features, and lists for Loud and Clear Reviews , and her reviews also appear on Rotten Tomatoes. She has also written for Collider and Fansided Entertainment's Show Snob division. If she's not in front of the TV, nerding out and dissecting content with her husband, you can just wait one minute because she'll be right back. Sign in to your How-To Geek account Add Us On follow Follow followed Followed Like Like Thread Log in Here is a fact-based summary of the story contents: Try something different: Show me the facts Explain it like I’m 5 Give me a lighthearted recap As one of my go-to platforms, HBO Max has a plethora of outstanding shows in its catalog that serve as major draws for anyone interested in looking for something to watch. Each year, that catalog grows and continues to strengthen the platform’s reputation as home to some of the most iconic TV shows ever made. We’ve selected five must-watch shows that aren't just iconic — they're absolute masterpieces. Our top pick is a scathing example of why going into business with family is never a good idea. 5 The White Lotus People aren't always who they seem to be Created by Mike White, The White Lotus is an anthology series following guests and employees at a luxury resort of the same name, with each season set in a different country. So far, we’ve been to Hawaii, Sicily, and Thailand, but the narrative's starting point always traces back to a dead body. From then on, we learn through irony and precision just who these guests really are behind their social façades. This razor-sharp social satire enterta