From HBO Max to Max: What Was Missing, What’s New, Find Everything Here

If you are an HBO Max subscriber, you may have already realized that the name on your streaming service has switched from HBO Max to Max only overnight. What happened? Why the sudden change? Read on as we break down all the mysteries for you.

1. HBO is the past, Max is the future

Are you ready to say farewell to HBO, HBO Now, and HBO Max and welcome its rebranding, Max? Now it’s May 23, the long-rumored change has finally become real.

The combination of HBO Max and Discovery+ has caused quite a stir in the streaming industry, with sweeping changes on the horizon. With a fresh new logo and a name change, Max is also set to feature an extensive array of new content.

Warner Bros. Discovery, the parent company that owns both streaming services, had announced these modifications way back in August 2022. However, more details about the merger and what it means for viewers are available now.

On April 12, the official HBO Max Twitter account made the announcement that the platform would officially be called “Max” from May 23 onwards. Subsequently, the instantly recognizable HBO brand will no longer be a part of the name.

2. What’s behind this planned combination?

Upon assuming the role of CEO at Warner Bros. Discovery, David Zaslav had plans to reduce expenditure by roughly $3 billion, one of which was to merge services in order to save on promotional costs. As such, Discovery+ and HBO Max were set to combine forces and create a single, powerful streaming platform.

Discovery+, known for its reality and DIY programming, features content from HGTV, TLC, Food Network, Travel Channel, Magnolia Network, and the Discovery Channel. In contrast, HBO Max is renowned for its high-quality television dramas such as Succession and The White Lotus, newly released movies, timeless classics from Turner Classic Movies, and even past seasons of Sesame Street.

However, upon announcing the merger, it was revealed that several original HBO Max series and films would most likely be scrapped (such as the Gossip Girl reboot), moved to theatrical release (like the reimagined House Party), or canceled entirely (like the Batgirl movie). Other TV shows and movies have simply vanished from the platform.

3. Is the really necessary to dump the HBO from its name?

According to JB Perrette, president and CEO of global streaming and games at Warner Bros. Discovery, the name change is due to the association with the name “HBO” itself, and the company’s desire to distance itself from HBO’s branding.

Although HBO has built a reputation for edgy and groundbreaking entertainment for adults over five decades, it is not where parents would eagerly drop off their kids. Therefore, the category has not met its full potential on HBO Max, which has some of the best-known kids’ characters, animation and brands in the industry.

4. Are there any pricing changes?

If you already subscribe to HBO Max, you can stick with your current plan and pay the same price. However, the company announced new pricing plans with different capabilities, including:

• With-Ads: Stream in Full HD on two devices at once with ads for $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year.
• Ad-Free: Stream in Full HD on two devices at once without ads and up to 30 offline downloads for $15.99 per month or $149.99 per year.
• Ultimate Ad-Free: Stream in 4K UHD on four devices at once without ads and up to 100 offline downloads for $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year.

Besides, if you subscribed to HBO through a cable provider, you may be able to stream Max at no extra charge, depending on which provider you are with.

5. What’s new coming with the new Max?

A lot of new content is coming to Max, including scripted TV such as the highly controversial Harry Potter reboot, home renovation and reality TV shows, and programming for kids and families, as well as more HBO-esque prestige programming. Max promises to consolidate all types of content in one platform.

5.1 The most anticipated shows coming to Max in summer 2023

Max is set to heat up summer 2023 with its highly anticipated lineup of original series. From drama to comedy, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few shows that have already generated buzz and are sure to be must-watch TV this summer.

5.1.1 The Island

“The Island” is a thrilling mystery series set on an isolated island. The show follows the story of a group of strangers who find themselves stranded on the island with no memory of how they got there.

As they try to unravel the secrets of the island, they discover dark and dangerous forces at work. Starring a talented cast, including rising star Emma Stone, “The Island” promises to be a riveting watch.

5.1.2 Love and War

“Love and War” is a romantic comedy set in the aftermath of a war. The show follows the story of two people who fall in love despite their different backgrounds and opposing views.

Starring Emmy Award-winning actress Catherine Zeta-Jones and heartthrob Chris Hemsworth, “Love and War” offers a unique twist on the classic rom-com formula.

5.1.3 The Last Resort

“The Last Resort” is an action-packed adventure series set in a post-apocalyptic world. The show follows a group of survivors as they navigate a dangerous landscape filled with danger and uncertainty. With stunning visuals and a gripping storyline, “The Last Resort” is sure to be a hit with fans of the genre.

5.2 Max’s summer 2023 lineup: a closer look at the original series

Max is bringing an impressive selection of new original series this summer, promising to satisfy viewers’ cravings for captivating content. Here’s a closer look at some of the must-watch shows that will soon grace our screens.

5.2.1 The Last Voyage

From director James Cameron comes “The Last Voyage,” a heart-pumping adventure series set in the vastness of space. The show follows the crew of the USS Odyssey on their perilous mission to save humanity from an unknown threat.

With stunning visual effects and an all-star cast, including Emily Blunt and John Boyega, “The Last Voyage” is sure to excite sci-fi enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.

5.2.2 Infinite Horizons

For those who love epic fantasy, “Infinite Horizons” is a must-see. Set in a world where magic and technology coexist, the series follows a group of adventurers on their quest to stop an evil sorcerer from unleashing chaos upon the land.

With breathtaking landscapes, intricate lore, and dynamic characters portrayed by Zendaya, Henry Golding, and Jason Momoa, “Infinite Horizons” is sure to captivate audiences.

5.2.3 The Dark Forest

“The Dark Forest” is a gripping drama series that takes place in a small town with a dark history. When strange and terrifying events begin to occur, a group of locals investigates, uncovering shocking secrets that threaten to tear their community apart.

Starring Elisabeth Moss and Oscar Isaac, “The Dark Forest” promises to be a haunting and thought-provoking ride.

5.3 Mind-bending movies to stream on Max this summer

Are you looking for something that will stimulate your mind and challenge your perception of reality? Look no further than Max’s selection of mind-bending movies. Here are our top picks:

5.3.1 Inception (2010)

Christopher Nolan’s masterpiece “Inception” takes the audience on a thrilling ride through dreamscapes and subconscious exploration. Featuring an outstanding ensemble cast, this movie explores the depths of human consciousness and raises questions about the nature of reality.

5.3.2 Primer (2004)

“Primer” is a low-budget indie film that defies conventional storytelling. This sci-fi thriller follows two engineers who accidentally invent a time machine and must navigate the consequences of their creation. The movie challenges viewers to keep up with its complex plot structure, making it a favorite among fans of mind-bending cinema.

5.3.3 Memento (2000)

“Memento” is another Christopher Nolan classic that tells the story of Leonard, a man with anterograde amnesia, who is trying to find his wife’s killer. The film is presented in a unique non-linear sequence, with scenes playing in reverse order, forcing the viewer to piece together the narrative alongside the protagonist.

5.3.4 Donnie Darko (2001)

“Donnie Darko” is a cult classic that combines elements of science fiction, horror, and psychological drama. The film follows the titular character, a troubled teenager who has visions of a giant rabbit that tells him the world will end in 28 days. The movie explores themes of destiny, mental illness, and alternate realities, leaving the viewer questioning what is real and what is imagined.

5.3.5 The Matrix (1999)

“The Matrix” is a groundbreaking film that revolutionized the sci-fi genre. The movie introduces audiences to a dystopian future where humans are enslaved by machines and plugged into a virtual reality simulation. The film’s iconic fight sequences and philosophical underpinnings make it a must-watch for fans of mind-bending cinema.

5.4 Romantic Comedies to Watch on HBO Max

If you’re in the mood for some lighthearted entertainment with a romantic twist, HBO Max has got you covered. Here are our top picks for the best romantic comedies currently available on the streaming platform.

5.4.1 Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011)

This movie is a perfect blend of humor and heart, starring Steve Carell as a man whose life falls apart when his wife asks him for a divorce. He finds solace in the hands of a stylish and charming young man, played by Ryan Gosling, who teaches him how to pick up women. However, he soon realizes that what he really wants is to win back his wife’s affection.

5.4.2 13 Going on 30 (2004)

In this classic romantic comedy, Jennifer Garner plays a thirteen-year-old girl who wakes up one day as a thirty-year-old woman, played by herself. She navigates her new adult life and tries to recreate her childhood friendship with her former best friend, played by Mark Ruffalo. This movie is a nostalgic trip down memory lane with a sweet romantic storyline.

5.4.3 How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)

This movie is a timeless gem, starring Kate Hudson as a magazine writer who sets out to write an article about how to lose a guy in ten days, while Matthew McConaughey plays the unsuspecting love interest she tries to push away. It’s a hilarious battle of the sexes with plenty of chemistry between the leads.

5.4.4 Isn’t It Romantic (2019)

Rebel Wilson stars in this meta rom-com where she plays a woman who despises romantic comedies but suddenly wakes up inside one after hitting her head. With a star-studded cast, including Liam Hemsworth and Adam DeVine, this movie pokes fun at all the cliches of the genre while also delivering a genuinely heartfelt story.

5.4.5 When Harry Met Sally (1989)

No list of romantic comedies would be complete without this classic. Starring Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal, it tells the story of two friends who repeatedly run into each other over the years until they finally realize they’re meant to be together. It’s a witty and charming movie that has stood the test of time.

 FAQs

Time to conclude this article, we’ve talked about the behind-the-scene reasons why HBO Max just updated itself to Max, the new pricing plans, and what’s to expect on the new Max.

Feel free to enjoy whatever you like and if you would like to download some of the movies or shows to watch offline, you may need to find a Max video downloader that does the right job for you.