Discover Top 5 Must-Watch HBO Max Shows for This Week

This week, HBO Max presents a compelling lineup of shows that are sure to engage viewers. From gripping crime dramas to acclaimed animated series, the selection offers something for everyone. The top five must-watch shows from November 17 to 21, 2025, feature a mix of new releases and fan favorites, all curated by Greg, a lead TV writer and critic at Screen Rant.

Top Picks for HBO Max Viewers

The Cleaning Lady has made its way to HBO Max after originally airing on Fox and being available on Hulu. This popular crime thriller follows an immigrant who becomes embroiled in a criminal underworld after witnessing a murder. With a total of 46 episodes over four seasons, the series has captivated many crime drama enthusiasts. Although some fans expressed disappointment with its fourth season, the show’s addictive premise continues to draw in viewers.

Another classic, The Boondocks, remains a significant highlight. With an IMDb rating of 8.5, it ranks #249 on IMDb’s Top 250 TV Shows of all time. The series chronicles the lives of two brothers, Huey and Riley, who move to the suburbs to live with their grandfather. Known for its cultural commentary, satire, and dark humor, The Boondocks has garnered a loyal following, with many considering it one of the best animated series available on HBO Max.

As the dystopian sci-fi series Falling Skies prepares to exit HBO Max on November 29, now is an ideal time to binge-watch. Starring two-time Emmy winner Noah Wyle, the show aired from 2011 to 2015 and comprises 52 episodes. It follows a group of survivors fighting to reclaim humanity after an alien invasion decimates over 90% of the global population. Fans of post-apocalyptic narratives will find this series compelling before it disappears from the platform.

Action-Packed Adventures and Drama

For those who enjoyed Netflix’s Last Samurai Standing, HBO Max’s Warrior serves as an excellent follow-up. Set in the late 1800s, the series features a Chinese martial arts expert, Ah Sham, portrayed by Andrew Koji, who becomes involved with a notorious gang in Chinatown while attempting to reunite with his family. Warrior has been praised as one of HBO Max’s most acclaimed yet underrated original series, having received three Emmy nominations and holding a Rotten Tomatoes score of 93% alongside a remarkable audience score of 96%.

Lastly, Euphoria continues to make waves long after its initial airing. Since its debut in June 2019, the coming-of-age drama has launched the careers of several stars, including Zendaya and Jacob Elordi. With nine Emmy wins, including two for Zendaya, the show maintains an 87% score on Rotten Tomatoes. As anticipation builds for season three, set to premiere in spring 2026, revisiting this influential series is highly recommended.

These selections reflect the diverse offerings available on HBO Max, ensuring viewers have plenty of options for their streaming needs. For a deeper dive into binge-watching options, check out Screen Rant’s comprehensive guides to popular shows across various platforms.