If you’ve been wondering what’s worth watching this month, Max is making it easy with a fresh slate of original content, from gripping dramas to heart-tugging documentaries and can’t-miss comedies.
Whether you’re in the mood for a bold new series like “Duster,” a deep dive into Paul Reubens’ legacy, or the return of Carrie Bradshaw and the crew in “And Just Like That…,” this month’s lineup is stacked.
Here’s your complete guide to what’s new on Max this May—organized by release date so you can add to your calendar and get your snacks ready.
📅 May 1 – 100 Foot Wave (Season 3)
- Type: HBO Original Documentary Series
- Episodes: 5 (Debuting weekly at 9 p.m. ET)
- What It’s About: The third season of “100 Foot Wave” follows legendary surfer Garrett McNamara and a crew of elite wave chasers as they ride some of the most dangerous surf on the planet. From Nazaré, Portugal, to Cortes Bank in the Pacific, this docuseries dives deep into the adrenaline, risk, and emotional toll of chasing monster waves.
- Why You’ll Watch: The breathtaking visuals are unmatched, and the human stories behind the surf are just as compelling. This season also captures rare moments like the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational in Hawaii.
📅 May 2 – Adult Best Friends
- Type: Feature Film
- What It’s About: Katie and Delaney have been best friends since childhood, but now in their 30s, life is pulling them in different directions. When Katie’s boyfriend pops the question, she plans a nostalgic getaway with Delaney to break the news—but the emotional trip takes unexpected turns.
- Cast Highlights: Delaney Buffett, Katie Corwin, Zachary Quinto, Mason Gooding, Cazzie David
- Why You’ll Watch: If you love heartfelt dramedies that explore evolving female friendships (think Frances Ha or Girls), this one’s for you.
📅 May 8 – Conan O’Brien Must Go (Season 2)
- Type: Max Original Unscripted Series
- Episodes: 3 (Releasing weekly)
- What It’s About: Conan O’Brien is back with his hilarious travel series, meeting fans from around the globe whom he first encountered on his podcast. Each episode delivers wild culture clashes, unforgettable moments, and that classic Conan charm.
- Why You’ll Watch: It’s equal parts cultural deep dive and comedy chaos. A great pick for fans of Anthony Bourdain and late-night laughs.
📅 May 15 – Duster
- Type: Max Original Drama Series
- Episodes: 8 (Debuting weekly)
- What It’s About: Set in the gritty Southwest during the 1970s, “Duster” follows a daring getaway driver working for a burgeoning crime syndicate. But when a tough-as-nails federal agent storms into town, the stakes rise—and the chaos unfolds.
- Cast Highlights: Josh Holloway, Rachel Hilson, Keith David
- Creative Team: Created by J.J. Abrams and LaToya Morgan. The first two episodes are directed by Steph Green (Watchmen).
- Why You’ll Watch: If you’re into shows like Breaking Bad or Justified, this retro-crime thriller is one to watch closely.
📅 May 16 – The Brutalist
- Type: Feature Film (A24)
- What It’s About: After surviving the chaos of post-war Europe, visionary architect László Toth emigrates to America to rebuild his life and marriage. But as he rises in the design world under a wealthy benefactor, the moral cost of success begins to take shape.
- Cast Highlights: Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, Guy Pearce, Joe Alwyn
- Why You’ll Watch: It’s moody, powerful, and filled with quiet tension—an introspective period piece with striking performances and haunting visuals.
📅 May 23 – Pee-wee as Himself
- Type: HBO Original Two-Part Documentary
- What It’s About: This deeply personal portrait of Paul Reubens offers a rare look behind the curtain of Pee-wee Herman. Through an emotional final interview, Reubens reflects on his life, the creation of his iconic character, and the personal sacrifices that came with success.
- Why You’ll Watch: Whether you grew up with Pee-wee or are just curious about the man behind the bowtie, this documentary is a touching, funny, and honest goodbye.
📅 May 29 – And Just Like That… (Season 3)
- Type: Max Original Comedy Series
- Episodes: 12 (Debuting weekly)
- What It’s About: Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte, and the crew return for another round of love, loss, sex, and sisterhood in NYC. This season promises new challenges, unexpected romances, and more of the signature style and sass that fans adore.
- Cast Highlights: Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon, Kristin Davis, Nicole Ari Parker, Sarita Choudhury, and more
- Extras: “And Just Like That…The Writers Room” companion podcast returns with exclusive BTS tea.
- Why You’ll Watch: Because you’re still rooting for Carrie—and the fashion is always fire.
📅 May 31 – Mountainhead
- Type: HBO Original Film
- What It’s About: A billionaire friend group gathers in the midst of a spiraling international crisis, and secrets, egos, and twisted agendas begin to surface.
- Cast Highlights: Steve Carell, Jason Schwartzman, Ramy Youssef, Cory Michael Smith
- Why You’ll Watch: Written and directed by “Succession” creator Jesse Armstrong, this sharp satire promises biting commentary, awkward tension, and razor-sharp dialogue.
Max really said “No skips” this May.
From globe-hopping Conan and retro heists in “Duster,” to emotional documentaries and A-list drama, your remote’s about to stay in your hand all month long.
Which title are you watching first?
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