7 Underrated HBO Max Shows You Need To Watch

HBO Max is a treasure trove of content, guys! But let's be real, sometimes the big blockbusters overshadow the real gems, those underrated movies and shows that deserve way more love. So, I've dug deep and unearthed the 7 best hidden gems currently streaming on HBO Max that you absolutely need to check out. Get ready to update your watchlist because you're about to discover some new favorites!

1. Station Eleven: A Post-Apocalyptic Masterpiece You Might Have Missed

Station Eleven is a limited series that aired in late 2021 and early 2022, and if you blinked, you might have missed it. This show is a masterpiece, plain and simple. It's a post-apocalyptic story, sure, but it's so much more than your typical bleak, dystopian fare. Station Eleven follows a group of survivors in a world ravaged by a flu pandemic, but it focuses on the power of art, memory, and human connection in the face of unimaginable loss. The show skillfully weaves together multiple timelines, exploring the lives of the characters before, during, and after the pandemic. The performances are incredible, the writing is sharp and poignant, and the overall atmosphere is both haunting and hopeful. What truly sets Station Eleven apart is its focus on the human spirit. It's not just about survival; it's about finding meaning and beauty in a world that has been shattered. The Traveling Symphony, a group of actors and musicians who travel from settlement to settlement performing Shakespeare, becomes a symbol of hope and resilience. Their performances are not just entertainment; they are a vital part of rebuilding a sense of community and shared humanity. The series delves into the complexities of grief, trauma, and the long road to recovery. Each character grapples with their own personal demons while trying to navigate a world that has been irrevocably changed. The show doesn't shy away from the darkness, but it also shines a light on the enduring power of love, friendship, and art. It's a story that will stay with you long after the credits roll. If you're looking for a show that will make you think, feel, and maybe even shed a tear or two, Station Eleven is an absolute must-watch. It's a hidden gem that deserves to be discovered by a wider audience. Don't let this one pass you by; it's truly special.

2. Search Party: Dark Comedy Gold

If you're into dark comedies with a healthy dose of satire, then Search Party is your jam! This show is seriously hilarious, but it's also surprisingly smart and thought-provoking. It follows a group of self-absorbed millennials in New York City who become obsessed with finding a missing former college acquaintance. The first season starts as a quirky mystery, but as the show progresses, it evolves into something much darker and more twisted. Each season takes on a different genre, from mystery to courtroom drama to psychological thriller, keeping things fresh and unpredictable. The characters are all flawed and often unlikeable, but that's part of what makes them so compelling. You'll love to hate them, and you'll definitely find yourself cringing and laughing along with their misadventures. The writing is sharp and witty, and the performances are top-notch. Alia Shawkat, who plays the main character Dory, is particularly fantastic. Search Party is a show that isn't afraid to push boundaries and tackle uncomfortable topics. It skewers millennial culture, social media obsession, and the true-crime genre with a sharp and satirical eye. The show also explores themes of identity, purpose, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. Underneath the dark humor, there's a genuine sense of vulnerability and a surprisingly insightful commentary on the human condition. What makes Search Party a hidden gem is its ability to blend genres seamlessly. It's a mystery, a comedy, a satire, and a drama all rolled into one. It's a show that will keep you guessing and laughing until the very end. If you're looking for something different, something edgy, and something hilarious, give Search Party a try. You won't be disappointed.

3. Made for Love: A Bizarre and Brilliant Sci-Fi Comedy

Okay, guys, Made for Love is wild. It's a sci-fi comedy that's both hilarious and deeply unsettling, and it's definitely one of the most unique shows I've seen in a while. Cristin Milioti (who you might recognize from Palm Springs and How I Met Your Mother) is phenomenal as Hazel Green, a woman who escapes her suffocating marriage to a tech billionaire who has implanted a chip in her brain that allows him to see her thoughts and track her location. Yes, you read that right. The premise is bonkers, but the show pulls it off with a perfect blend of humor and pathos. Made for Love is a show that's not afraid to be weird, and that's what makes it so brilliant. It explores themes of technology, relationships, and the desire for control in a way that's both funny and thought-provoking. The supporting cast is also fantastic, including Billy Magnussen as Hazel's eccentric and controlling husband, and Ray Romano as her widowed father who has an unconventional relationship with a synthetic dolphin. The show's visual style is also striking, with a mix of sleek, futuristic settings and the stark landscapes of the Nevada desert. The contrast between these two worlds highlights the tension between Hazel's desire for freedom and her husband's obsession with technology. What makes Made for Love a hidden gem is its originality. It's a show that's unlike anything else on television right now. It's funny, smart, and surprisingly moving. If you're looking for something that will challenge your expectations and make you laugh out loud, Made for Love is definitely worth checking out. It's a show that will stay with you long after you've finished watching it.

4. The Rehearsal: Nathan Fielder's Uncomfortably Hilarious Experiment

Nathan Fielder is a comedic genius, and The Rehearsal is his most ambitious and boundary-pushing show yet. If you're familiar with his previous work, Nathan For You, you know what to expect: awkward interactions, elaborate schemes, and a whole lot of uncomfortable humor. But The Rehearsal takes things to a whole new level. The show centers around Fielder helping ordinary people rehearse difficult conversations or life events by creating incredibly detailed simulations. He builds full-scale replicas of real-life locations, hires actors to play the roles of the other people involved, and meticulously plans every possible outcome. The result is a show that's both hilarious and deeply unsettling. The Rehearsal blurs the lines between reality and fiction, leaving you constantly wondering what's real and what's staged. The show also raises some fascinating ethical questions about the nature of performance, empathy, and the lengths we'll go to avoid discomfort. Fielder's commitment to his craft is astounding, and his willingness to push the boundaries of comedy is what makes him such a unique and compelling voice. The Rehearsal is not for everyone. It's definitely a show that will make you squirm, but it's also a show that will make you think. What makes The Rehearsal a hidden gem is its originality and its willingness to take risks. It's a show that's unlike anything else on television right now, and it's a testament to Fielder's singular comedic vision. If you're looking for something that will challenge your expectations and leave you with a lot to ponder, The Rehearsal is a must-watch.

5. Los Espookys: A Quirky Spanish-Language Comedy

For those of you looking for something a little different, Los Espookys is a Spanish-language comedy that's both hilarious and delightfully weird. This show follows a group of friends in Mexico City who run a business creating horror-themed events. They stage everything from fake exorcisms to haunted houses, and their clients range from wealthy socialites to local politicians. The show is full of quirky characters, surreal situations, and a healthy dose of dark humor. Los Espookys is a show that celebrates the strange and unusual, and it does so with a lot of heart. The cast is fantastic, and the writing is sharp and witty. The show also offers a unique perspective on Mexican culture, exploring themes of family, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams. What makes Los Espookys a hidden gem is its originality and its unique voice. It's a show that's not afraid to be weird, and it's all the better for it. If you're looking for a comedy that's both funny and thought-provoking, and you're open to watching something in Spanish with subtitles, Los Espookys is definitely worth checking out. It's a show that will make you laugh, make you think, and maybe even make you a little bit spooked.

6. Warrior: A Gripping Martial Arts Period Drama

Warrior is a martial arts period drama set in San Francisco's Chinatown in the late 19th century. Inspired by the writings of Bruce Lee, the show follows Ah Sahm, a martial arts prodigy who immigrates from China in search of his sister and becomes embroiled in the Tong Wars. This show is action-packed, visually stunning, and full of complex characters. Warrior is a show that's not afraid to tackle difficult issues, including racism, immigration, and the challenges of assimilation. The fight choreography is incredible, and the performances are top-notch. The show also does a great job of depicting the vibrant and often dangerous world of 19th-century Chinatown. The costumes, the sets, and the music all contribute to a rich and immersive viewing experience. What makes Warrior a hidden gem is its blend of action, drama, and historical context. It's a show that will keep you on the edge of your seat while also making you think about the complexities of the human experience. If you're a fan of martial arts movies, historical dramas, or just good television in general, Warrior is a must-watch.

7. Somebody Somewhere: A Heartfelt and Hilarious Small-Town Story

Somebody Somewhere is a heartfelt comedy about a woman named Sam who returns to her small hometown in Kansas after the death of her sister. The show follows Sam as she navigates grief, reconnects with old friends, and tries to find her place in a town that feels both familiar and foreign. This show is funny, poignant, and surprisingly life-affirming. Somebody Somewhere is a show that celebrates the beauty of ordinary moments and the importance of human connection. The performances are fantastic, particularly Bridget Everett, who plays Sam with a perfect blend of vulnerability and wit. The show also features a supporting cast of quirky and lovable characters who make Sam's journey even more compelling. What makes Somebody Somewhere a hidden gem is its authenticity and its emotional resonance. It's a show that feels real, that speaks to the universal experiences of grief, loss, and the search for belonging. If you're looking for a comedy that will make you laugh, make you cry, and make you feel good about the world, Somebody Somewhere is a perfect choice.

So there you have it, guys! My top 7 hidden gems currently streaming on HBO Max. I hope you find something new to love on this list. Happy watching!