November is here, and while the air might be crisp and the holidays are on the horizon, sometimes you just want to curl up with a good movie. But what if you’re tired of the same old streaming suggestions? Don’t settle for the usual suspects! Max, the streaming service formerly known as HBO Max, has a vast library, offering thousands of titles across every genre imaginable. We’ve scoured their collection to bring you three outstanding films, guaranteed to provide a couple of hours of captivating entertainment.
Dive into the Dark Comedy of ‘The Player’ (1992)
If you’re a movie buff, then you’ve probably seen plenty of films about the film industry. But few can match the sharp wit and cynical charm of Robert Altman’s ‘The Player.’ This 1992 classic follows Griffin Mill (Tim Robbins), a morally bankrupt studio executive, who finds himself caught in a chilling game of cat and mouse. A series of threatening postcards arrive on his doorstep, leading him to confront a disgruntled screenwriter. But when things take a dark turn, Griffin must navigate the murky world of Hollywood deception, all while juggling the mundane tasks of his job.
Don’t be fooled by the thriller-esque premise. ‘The Player’ is a masterclass in dark comedy, masterfully directed by Altman. It offers a glimpse into the underbelly of Hollywood, exposing the hypocrisy and power struggles that lurk beneath the glamorous facade. With razor-sharp dialogue and a stellar performance by Robbins, ‘The Player’ remains a relevant and entertaining film even today. You can find it streaming on Max.
Experience the Heartfelt Story of ‘Janet Planet’ (2024)
While 2024 might not have been a blockbuster year for independent cinema, it has unearthed hidden gems like ‘Janet Planet.’ This poignant character study, written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Annie Baker and starring Julianne Nicholson, offers a moving portrait of a complex mother-daughter relationship.
The title might be misleading; Janet is not an astronomical object but a struggling single mother. She’s juggling the challenges of raising her demanding 11-year-old daughter, Lacy, while trying to rekindle her love life. ‘Janet Planet’ takes a slice-of-life approach, offering a raw and honest portrayal of a mother’s unwavering love and a daughter’s journey to let go of childhood. While the plot might be considered loose, it’s the character development and the emotional depth that make this film a must-watch. Find ‘Janet Planet’ streaming on Max.
Embark on a Journey of Secrets and Revelation with ‘Let Them All Talk’ (2020)
The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the film industry significantly, pushing release dates and forcing many productions to halt. But one film that thrived amidst the chaos was ‘Let Them All Talk.’ This Steven Soderbergh film starring Meryl Streep, Dianne Wiest, Candice Bergen, and Lucas Hedges, found its audience in the comfort of their homes as viewers sought new content. It’s a testament to the power of good storytelling that the pandemic didn’t dampen the film’s impact.
Set primarily on the iconic Queen Mary 2, ‘Let Them All Talk’ centers on Alice Hughes (Streep), a celebrated author who has fallen into a writer’s block. As she embarks on a trip to England to receive a prestigious literary award, she invites two old friends, Roberta (Bergen) and Susan (Wiest), and her nephew (Hedges) along for the ride. What follows is a captivating tale of simmering tensions, buried secrets, and personal confrontations, all played out against the backdrop of the vast ocean. ‘Let Them All Talk’ is a must-see for fans of ensemble dramas and thought-provoking stories. You can find it streaming on Max.
So, forget the usual streaming choices. Get ready for a November filled with captivating stories and powerful performances. These three films will leave you entertained and inspired, reminding you that some of the best movies are just a click away.
