HBO Max has long established itself as a premier channel, known for delivering high-quality television programming. Famous for showcasing dragons, zombie narratives, mobster antics, and the extravagant mischief of the wealthy, it also offers a plethora of quirky and comedic series perfect for binge-watching.
This week, as viewers await the arrival of upcoming series like Stuart Fails to Save the Universe on July 23, let’s spotlight three lesser-known but highly entertaining options for U.S. subscribers. Among them is a zany show that transforms bizarre headlines from Florida into comedic chaos, a gripping true-crime documentary series, and an exceptional satire of the entertainment industry.
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The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst
A real-estate heir, three deaths, one confession
For true-crime enthusiasts, this Emmy-winning documentary series from director Andrew Jarecki, the mind behind Capturing the Friedmans, played a pivotal role in defining the modern-day true-crime genre.
If you missed The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst during its original run in 2015, now’s the time to discover this compelling murder saga. Presented in two six-episode parts (one in 2015 and another in 2024), it scrutinizes the life of Robert Durst—a peculiar heir to a New York real estate fortune—who is implicated in the mysterious deaths of three individuals: his wife Kathie in 1982, friend Susan Berman in 2000, and neighbor Morris Black in 2001.
Perhaps the most shocking moment occurs during an on-camera interview where Durst inadvertently confesses while off-mic, just before being arrested the day prior to the finale. The first part builds up to this stunning revelation, while the second part delves into Durst’s trial, conviction, and eventual death in prison. This gripping documentary maintains a remarkable 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
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The Other Two
Siblings learn to cope with the massive fame of their little brother
If you enjoy series that satirize the entertainment industry—think The Comeback—then this three-season, Emmy-nominated comedy crafted by former SNL writers Chris Kelly and Sarah Schneider will fit right into your binge-watching lineup.
The Other Two revolves around siblings Cary Dubek (Drew Tarver), an aspiring gay actor, and Brooke (Heléne Yorke), a former dancer lacking ambition. Their lives are thrown into chaos when their 13-year-old brother Chase (Case Walker) skyrockets to fame overnight, akin to pop star Justin Bieber, after a viral music video.
While Chase isn’t as caricatured as some pop star parodies, the series cleverly critiques internet culture and the ruthless nature of Hollywood as “ChaseDreams” gains popularity. However, the core of the show lies in the family dynamics—everyone seeks to latch onto Chase’s newfound fame, with their mother Pat (Molly Shannon) launching her own talk show while Cary and Brooke grapple with feelings of envy and their quest for relevance. Co-starring Ken Marino and Wanda Sykes, this series brilliantly combines humor and heartfelt family storytelling.
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It’s Florida, Man
A celebrity cast recreates real Florida headlines
Even from Canada, the “Florida Man” memes and outlandish news stories are hard to ignore. Danny McBride and David Gordon Green, known for Eastbound & Down and The Righteous Gemstones, have put together It’s Florida, Man, an anthology comedy series that dramatizes some of the wildest headlines from Florida.
This series features two hilarious seasons, with each episode clocking in at around 25 minutes, showcasing bizarre true stories featuring a “Florida Man.” Narrated by Stephen Root (of Office Space fame), the series includes commentary from real Floridians who verify each tale. The real highlight is the star-studded guest cast, who reenact everything from wrestling alligators to wild revenge schemes and even professional mermaid rivalries.
Some notable guest stars include Jake Johnson, Anna Faris, Juliette Lewis, Ego Nwodim, Randall Park, Adam DeVine, Tiffany Haddish, and even Taika Waititi. As one Floridian quips on camera, “Come here on vacation, stay on probation.” Enough said.
Ready, set, binge
While hits like House of the Dragon and Rick and Morty continue to lead HBO Max’s rankings, don’t overlook the treasure trove of content available on the platform to maximize your subscription. When you’re ready for another binge session, there are plenty more recommendations waiting for you in the streaming section.
