The Definitive Guide to the 35 Best Movies on Max Right Now (August 2025)
Welcome to Tech Today, your ultimate authority on all things streaming. As August 2025 dawns, the streaming landscape on Max (formerly HBO Max) continues to evolve, offering a dazzling array of cinematic experiences. We’ve meticulously curated a list of the 35 best movies available on Max right now, designed to cater to every discerning viewer’s palate. From pulse-pounding thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat to poignant dramas that resonate long after the credits roll, our selection promises a month of unparalleled entertainment. Prepare to immerse yourself in a world of captivating storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and unforgettable performances.
The Elite Tier: Must-Watch Masterpieces on Max This August
Our journey begins with a deep dive into the absolute cream of the crop, films that have not only garnered critical acclaim but have also cemented their place in cinematic history. These are the movies that define excellence and represent the pinnacle of what Max has to offer this month.
Horror That Will Haunt Your Dreams: Final Destination: Bloodlines and The Exorcist: Believer
For aficionados of the macabre and the deliciously terrifying, August 2025 on Max delivers a potent cocktail of scares. Final Destination: Bloodlines, the latest installment in the iconic franchise, introduces a fresh cast and a novel approach to the series’ signature death-defying scenarios. This iteration promises to push the boundaries of creative fatalities, exploring new avenues for Rube Goldberg-esque demise. Expect intricate Rube Goldberg machines of death, each more elaborate and shocking than the last, all stemming from a premonition that saves a group of unsuspecting individuals from a catastrophic event. The film masterfully blends jump scares with a pervasive sense of dread, making it a must-watch for horror fans seeking a visceral thrill.
Complementing this is The Exorcist: Believer. This chilling revival of a legendary horror saga delves into the terrifying world of demonic possession with a renewed intensity. The film follows the desperate parents of two young girls who are simultaneously possessed by the same demonic entity. As their daughters’ conditions worsen, they seek help from the only person who has ever witnessed such a horror: Chris MacNeil, whose own daughter Regan was possessed fifty years prior. The movie excels in its atmospheric tension, its disturbing imagery, and the powerful performances from its cast, particularly Ellen Burstyn reprising her iconic role. It’s a film that respects the legacy of its predecessor while forging its own path into the darkest corners of faith and fear.
A Modern Thriller That Redefined the Genre: Get Out
No exploration of August’s best on Max would be complete without acknowledging the enduring brilliance of Get Out. Jordan Peele’s directorial debut is a cinematic triumph, a masterful blend of social commentary, psychological horror, and dark humor that continues to resonate with audiences. The film’s narrative follows Chris, a young African American man who visits his white girlfriend’s parents for the first time, only to uncover a disturbing and sinister secret lurking beneath their seemingly welcoming facade. Peele expertly crafts a story that is both deeply unsettling and thought-provoking, dissecting themes of racism, identity, and the unsettling nature of liberal hypocrisy with unparalleled skill. The film’s clever writing, its chilling atmosphere, and its unforgettable moments of dread make it an absolute essential viewing. Its impact on modern cinema is undeniable, and its place on this list is a testament to its lasting power.
Award-Winning Dramas That Stir the Soul: Parasite and The Farewell
For those seeking narratives that provoke thought and touch the heart, Max offers a selection of critically acclaimed dramas that are simply unmissable. Parasite, Bong Joon-ho’s Palme d’Or and Academy Award-winning masterpiece, remains a towering achievement in contemporary cinema. This South Korean dark comedy thriller masterfully explores themes of class struggle, social inequality, and the corrosive effects of desperation. The film’s unpredictable plot, its brilliant ensemble cast, and its profound social commentary combine to create an experience that is both thrilling and deeply moving. Every frame is meticulously crafted, and every twist and turn of the narrative leaves a lasting impression.
Equally compelling is The Farewell. Lulu Wang’s semi-autobiographical film is a tender and poignant exploration of family, culture, and unspoken grief. The story centers on Billi, a Chinese-American woman who learns that her beloved grandmother, Nai-Nai, has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. However, the family decides not to tell Nai-Nai about her illness, instead staging a fake wedding to bring everyone together for one last shared experience. The film navigates the complexities of intergenerational relationships and cultural differences with immense grace and humor, offering a heartfelt and ultimately cathartic experience. Awkwafina delivers a career-defining performance as Billi, embodying the character’s internal conflict and profound love for her grandmother.
Blockbuster Brilliance: Action, Adventure, and Sci-Fi Spectacles
Max’s expansive library ensures that action and adventure enthusiasts have plenty to sink their teeth into. We’ve selected films that deliver on spectacle, excitement, and pure cinematic entertainment, offering a thrilling escape into worlds of imagination and daring feats.
Superhero Supremacy: The Batman and Shazam! Fury of the Gods
The caped crusader continues to reign supreme on Max with The Batman. Matt Reeves’ gritty and atmospheric take on the iconic DC hero presents a darker, more grounded version of Gotham City and its brooding protector. Robert Pattinson embodies a younger, more unhinged Batman, grappling with his dual identity and the immense weight of his crusade against crime. The film is a masterclass in noir-infused filmmaking, featuring stunning cinematography, a haunting score, and a compelling narrative that delves into the detective aspects of Batman’s persona. The intricate plot, which sees Batman investigating a series of cryptic riddles left by the Riddler, provides a gripping mystery that unfolds with every frame.
For a lighter, more family-friendly superhero adventure, Shazam! Fury of the Gods offers a delightful dose of wish-fulfillment and chaotic fun. Billy Batson and his foster siblings, now a superhero family, face a new threat from the vengeful daughters of Atlas. The film retains the lighthearted charm and humor of its predecessor, while amping up the action and visual effects. Zachary Levi’s portrayal of Shazam remains a highlight, capturing the childlike wonder and earnestness of a teenager suddenly imbued with immense power. It’s a vibrant and entertaining spectacle that’s perfect for an evening of family movie night.
Sci-Fi Thrills That Push the Envelope: Dune and Blade Runner 2049
Immerse yourself in vast, intricate worlds with two of science fiction’s most visually stunning achievements, both available on Max. Denis Villeneuve’s Dune is a breathtaking adaptation of Frank Herbert’s seminal novel. The film plunges viewers into the desert planet of Arrakis, a world of political intrigue, ecological warfare, and messianic prophecy. Timothée Chalamet leads a stellar cast as Paul Atreides, a young nobleman thrust into a destiny far greater than he could have imagined. The sheer scale and ambition of Dune are awe-inspiring, with its immersive world-building, stunning visuals, and epic scope creating a truly cinematic experience. The film’s meticulous attention to detail in its production design and soundscape makes it a world you can get lost in.
Following in its footsteps, Blade Runner 2049, also directed by Villeneuve, is a visually arresting and philosophically rich sequel to the 1982 classic. Ryan Gosling stars as K, a new blade runner who unearths a long-buried secret that has the potential to plunge what’s left of society into chaos. The film is a neo-noir masterpiece, characterized by its stunning cinematography, its hauntingly beautiful score, and its profound exploration of themes like artificial intelligence, memory, and what it truly means to be human. Its deliberate pacing and atmospheric tension build to a profoundly moving and thought-provoking conclusion, making it a landmark in the science fiction genre.
Action-Packed Adventures: Mad Max: Fury Road and John Wick: Chapter 4
For those who crave adrenaline-fueled action and unforgettable sequences, Max delivers with these two modern classics. Mad Max: Fury Road is a relentless, high-octane chase through a post-apocalyptic wasteland. George Miller’s masterpiece is a visceral and exhilarating cinematic experience, with its practical effects, breathtaking stunt work, and relentless pace. Charlize Theron shines as Furiosa, a formidable warrior who rebels against a tyrannical warlord, while Tom Hardy steps into the iconic role of Max. It’s a film that’s as much a work of art as it is an action spectacle, a true testament to the power of pure, unadulterated filmmaking.
John Wick: Chapter 4 continues the stylish and brutal saga of the Baba Yaga. Keanu Reeves returns as the legendary hitman, facing off against the High Table in a globe-trotting quest for freedom. This installment elevates the franchise’s signature blend of expertly choreographed action, intricate world-building, and compelling character development to new heights. The set pieces are inventive and breathtaking, from the neon-drenched streets of Osaka to the grandeur of Paris. It’s a film that delivers on its promise of escalating stakes and expertly crafted violence, solidifying John Wick’s place as one of modern cinema’s most iconic action heroes.
Animated Wonders: For All Ages and Tastes
Max’s animation selection is a treasure trove of creativity, offering stories that captivate children and adults alike with their visual artistry and compelling narratives.
Pixar’s Poignant Storytelling: Soul and Turning Red
Pixar continues to impress with its ability to craft emotionally resonant stories that explore profound themes. Soul takes audiences on a journey through the afterlife, exploring the essence of what makes us uniquely human. Jamie Foxx voices Joe Gardner, a jazz musician who finds himself in the Great Before, a whimsical place where new souls learn about life. The film’s stunning animation, its captivating jazz-infused score, and its philosophical musings on purpose and passion make it a truly moving and inspiring experience. It’s a film that encourages introspection and celebrates the simple joys of living.
Turning Red offers a vibrant and relatable coming-of-age story with a delightful fantastical twist. Directed by Domee Shi, the film follows Mei Lee, a confident but dorky 13-year-old who is torn between being her mother’s obedient daughter and the chaos of adolescence. When she gets too excited or stressed, she turns into a giant red panda. The film is a joyous celebration of friendship, family, and embracing one’s true self, with a fantastic soundtrack and a unique visual style that perfectly captures the whirlwind of teenage emotions.
Studio Ghibli’s Enchanting Worlds: Spirited Away and Howl’s Moving Castle
For an escape into truly magical and beautifully realized animated worlds, Max offers the unparalleled artistry of Studio Ghibli. Spirited Away, Hayao Miyazaki’s Academy Award-winning masterpiece, is a timeless tale of a young girl who stumbles into a spirit world and must find her way back home. The film is a visual feast, filled with imaginative creatures, breathtaking landscapes, and a profound sense of wonder. Chihiro’s journey of self-discovery and bravery in this strange new realm is both enchanting and deeply moving.
Howl’s Moving Castle, another Miyazaki gem, tells the story of Sophie, a young hatmaker who is transformed into an old woman by a witch’s curse. She finds refuge in the magical moving castle of the flamboyant wizard Howl. The film is a romantic and visually spectacular adventure, filled with whimsical characters, daring aerial battles, and a powerful anti-war message. The intricate animation and the sheer imaginative scope of the world-building make it a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.
Critically Acclaimed Comedies That Will Leave You in Stitches
Laughter is, as they say, the best medicine, and Max’s comedy selection this August offers a potent dose. We’ve chosen films that excel in sharp writing, memorable characters, and hilarious situations.
Witty Dialogue and Stellar Performances: Booksmart and Palm Springs
Booksmart is a refreshingly honest and hilarious take on the high school experience. Olivia Wilde’s directorial debut follows two academic overachievers who realize on the eve of graduation that they’ve missed out on the fun. They decide to cram four years of high school into one wild night. The film’s sharp dialogue, its infectious energy, and the sparkling chemistry between its lead actresses, Kaitlyn Dever and Beanie Feldstein, make it an instant classic. It’s a celebration of friendship, self-discovery, and embracing your true self, even if it’s a little messy.
Palm Springs offers a clever and charming twist on the time-loop trope. Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti star as two wedding guests who find themselves reliving the same day over and over again. The film expertly balances its high-concept premise with genuine emotional depth and hilarious comedic moments. It’s a smart, romantic, and surprisingly profound exploration of love, commitment, and finding meaning in the mundane. The chemistry between the leads is electric, making their shared predicament both funny and touching.
Dark Humor and Satirical Brilliance: The Death of Stalin and Eighth Grade
For those who appreciate a darker, more satirical brand of comedy, The Death of Stalin is an absolute must-watch. Armando Iannucci’s political satire is a masterclass in sharp wit and biting social commentary. The film hilms the chaotic power struggle within the Soviet Union following the death of its tyrannical leader. The ensemble cast is superb, delivering a performance that is both hilariously absurd and disturbingly relevant. Its rapid-fire dialogue and its unflinching look at the machinations of power make it a unique and unforgettable comedic experience.
Bo Burnham’s directorial debut, Eighth Grade, offers a remarkably authentic and empathetic portrayal of adolescence. The film follows Kayla Day, a shy and awkward 13-year-old as she navigates the treacherous waters of middle school. Elsie Fisher delivers a breakout performance as Kayla, capturing the anxieties, insecurities, and small triumphs of a young girl trying to find her voice. The film’s candid and often uncomfortable depiction of modern teenage life is both hilarious and deeply touching, making it a powerful testament to the universality of the middle school experience.
Hidden Gems and Underrated Treasures
Beyond the blockbusters and award-winners, Max is home to a wealth of exceptional films that may have flown under the radar but are well worth your attention.
Compelling Narratives and Artistic Vision: The Lighthouse and Nomadland
Robert Eggers’ The Lighthouse is a chilling and atmospheric descent into madness. Starring Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson, this black-and-white psychological horror film follows two lighthouse keepers on a remote New England island in the 1890s as their sanity slowly unravels. The film’s intense performances, its claustrophobic atmosphere, and its ambiguous narrative create a truly mesmerizing and unsettling experience. It’s a film that demands your attention and rewards it with its artistic audacity.
Chloé Zhao’s Nomadland, winner of the Academy Award for Best Picture, is a poignant and deeply humanistic portrait of modern American life. Frances McDormand stars as Fern, a woman who, after losing everything in the Great Recession, embarks on a journey through the American West as a modern-day nomad. The film is a quiet and observational study of resilience, community, and the search for meaning in the face of loss. Its breathtaking cinematography and its profound empathy for its characters make it a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.
Genre-Bending Innovation: Us and The Invisible Man
Jordan Peele strikes again with Us, a thought-provoking and terrifying horror film that delves into the duality of human nature. Lupita Nyong’o delivers a powerhouse performance as a woman who is terrorized by her doppelgänger. The film is filled with symbolic imagery, sharp social commentary, and moments of genuine suspense, offering a complex and layered narrative that lingers long after viewing.
Leigh Whannell’s The Invisible Man reimagines the classic Universal monster with a fresh and modern feminist perspective. Elisabeth Moss is phenomenal as Cecilia Kass, a woman who escapes her abusive relationship with a brilliant optics scientist, only to be tormented by the suspicion that he is invisible and terrorizing her. The film is a masterclass in building tension and suspense, crafting a story that is both thrilling and deeply resonant with themes of gaslighting and control.
Conclusion: Your August Cinema Journey Begins Now
This comprehensive list of the 35 best movies on Max right now for August 2025 is a testament to the platform’s diverse and high-quality offerings. From groundbreaking horror like Final Destination: Bloodlines and The Exorcist: Believer, to thought-provoking dramas such as Parasite and The Farewell, and exhilarating blockbusters like The Batman and Dune, there is truly something for everyone. We encourage you to explore these cinematic gems, rediscover forgotten favorites, and perhaps even stumble upon your new obsession. At Tech Today, we are dedicated to guiding you through the ever-expanding world of streaming, ensuring you never miss out on the best that entertainment has to offer. Happy viewing!