How did you feel about the explosive finale of House of the Dragon this season? With shocking betrayals, significant character fatalities, and intense dragon battles—what else could you ask for? If you’re already searching for something new to watch on HBO Max, I understand. While Lanterns is just around the corner and Abbott Elementary‘s fifth season is a bit further off, there are still interesting shows available that you might not expect.
This week features an exciting mix: the ongoing 64th season of Food Network’s beloved cooking competition, a gripping new thriller series from 2023, and my top binge recommendation, which you definitely shouldn’t miss.
Chopped: Volume 4 (Season 64)
Mystery ingredients and a grand prize await
For fans of culinary competitions, few shows can match the enduring popularity and bingeability of Food Network’s Chopped, captivating audiences since 2009. The series has amassed 64 seasons, featuring its signature format where four chefs compete in three rounds, creating an appetizer, main course, and dessert from a collection of mystery ingredients unveiled from a basket.
Known for its comedic references in shows like Saturday Night Live, the chefs must whip up extraordinary dishes using often peculiar ingredients—think gizzards, brain, snouts, and unusual fruits. These creations are scrutinized by a rotating panel of judges, including Alex Guarnaschelli, Scott Conant, and Amanda Freitag, who eliminate participants until one chef claims the $10,000 prize.
The show wouldn’t be the same without its charismatic host, Ted Allen, who keeps the energy lively. Volume 64 of Chopped became available on HBO Max on August 4, and all eight episodes can be streamed in one go.
Full Circle
A kidnapping reveals hidden family secrets
Full Circle is a riveting thriller that unfortunately didn’t attract as much attention as it deserved. This limited series, directed by Steven Soderbergh and written by Ed Solomon, reinvents Akira Kurosawa’s classic 1963 film High and Low. The narrative kicks off with a kidnapping orchestrated by a crime boss, who mistakenly targets the wrong teenager, leading to escalating chaos that ensnares the victim’s parents, Sam and Derek Browne, portrayed by Claire Danes and Timothy Olyphant.
As the plot unfolds, a relentless inspector, played by Zazie Beetz, delves into a murky web of family secrets, corruption, and murder. Dennis Quaid also appears in this six-episode thriller, which, despite receiving a modest 78% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, boasts a suspenseful twist ending.
Robot Chicken
Seth Green’s satirical series is a must-watch
My top pick this week is Robot Chicken, a landmark series in pop culture comedy. Created by Seth Green and Matthew Senreich, this Emmy-winning stop-motion animation has been hilariously critiquing pop culture with its amusing sketches since 2005. All 11 seasons are currently available for binge-watching on HBO Max.
The show’s absurdity unfolds in short sketches featuring action figures and dolls, showcasing parodies of beloved figures from Star Wars to G.I. Joe, and beyond. The darkly humorous plot of the series involves a revived cyborg chicken subjected to outrageous programming, which leads to unpredictable and side-splitting content. Green lends his voice to several characters, along with a plethora of guest stars like Mark Hamill and Scarlett Johansson. An Adult Swim Special is premiering on August 30, making it a perfect time to dive into this wild series.
Why These Shows Are Worth Your Time
While these selections might not be the headline attractions on HBO Max, they offer engaging narratives, compelling competition, and a good dose of humor. For additional recommendations across various streaming platforms, make sure to explore our streaming section for the latest in shows and films.
