While HBO Max has produced a number of acclaimed television series, several standout shows have slipped through the cracks of popular memory shortly after their release. Despite their quality, titles like The Sex Lives of College Girls and Pretty Little Liars have failed to capture the attention they deserve amidst the streaming service’s relentless push for new content. This phenomenon is not unique to HBO Max; numerous platforms, including Netflix and Apple TV, face similar challenges as viewers navigate an overwhelming array of choices.
One notable example is Hacks, a comedy series that blends sharp satire with heartfelt moments. Following the dynamic between veteran comedian Deborah Vance, portrayed by Jean Smart, and her ambitious protégé Ava Daniels, played by Hannah Einbinder, the show strikes a delicate balance between humor and poignancy. Despite receiving four consecutive Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Comedy Series and winning in its third season, Hacks has not achieved a broader mainstream following. Its engaging performances and notable guest appearances from comedians like Margaret Cho and Patton Oswalt only add to its charm, leaving many puzzled as to why it hasn’t resonated widely.
Another series that deserves attention is Gremlins, which premiered in May 2023 as a prequel to the beloved ’80s horror-comedy franchise. Despite its kid-friendly animation style, the show retains the spiky humor of the original films. Featuring a talented voice cast including Matthew Rhys and Ming-Na Wen, Gremlins expands the lore of the franchise while maintaining the anarchic spirit of its predecessors. However, despite positive critical reception, it has struggled to capture the franchise’s fan base, with discussions often centering around the potential for a third live-action film rather than this existing, entertaining spin-off.
Released in 2023, Full Circle is a mystery drama crafted by director Steven Soderbergh and writer Ed Solomon. The series intricately weaves together the lives of individuals involved in a botched kidnapping, with a narrative that rewards close viewing. With a strong ensemble cast including Claire Danes and CCH Pounder, the show combines Soderbergh’s signature stylings with Solomon’s knack for storytelling, yet it too has failed to gain substantial traction in popular culture.
The reboot of Pretty Little Liars, which debuted in July 2022, faced skepticism from fans of the original series. The decision to make the new version R-rated raised concerns about alienating its teenage audience. Despite mixed reactions prior to its release, the show has proven to be a surprisingly inventive and engaging twist on the original. While it diverges from the playful tone of its predecessor, the 2022 reboot explores darker themes and follows a more brutal narrative. Unfortunately, it was quietly canceled in September 2024, leaving fans wanting more.
Another notable title is The Sex Lives of College Girls, developed by Mindy Kaling. This series offers a refreshing, female-centric perspective on the college sex comedy genre, often dominated by male narratives. With a cast that includes breakout stars Renee Rapp and Amrit Kaur, the show combines humor with candid discussions about young adulthood. Despite its raunchy and unapologetic approach, it has not garnered the widespread recognition it deserves since its debut in 2021.
Lastly, Raised By Wolves, created by Ridley Scott, is a visually striking sci-fi drama that delves into themes of faith and humanity. Following two androids tasked with raising human children on a distant planet after Earth’s destruction, the show presents a unique narrative that challenges conventional storytelling. Despite its ambitious scope and stunning visuals, it has struggled to find a substantial audience since its launch in 2020, overshadowed by the sheer volume of content available on competing platforms.
These six HBO Max shows exemplify the platform’s ability to produce quality content that often goes unnoticed. As viewers continue to navigate an ever-expanding landscape of streaming options, it remains crucial to rediscover these hidden gems that showcase the diverse storytelling and talent within the industry.
