The 3 Best Movies on HBO Max This Week
As Oscar nomination week unfolds, HBO Max presents a curated selection of films for movie enthusiasts. Beyond recent releases like “One Battle After Another,” “Sinners,” “Sorry, Baby,” and “Weapons,” the streaming service offers a chance to revisit cinematic classics, including a beloved romance, an acclaimed animated feature, and what is considered by some to be the greatest Best Picture winner of the last 26 years.
Timeless Romance and Cinematic Excellence
HBO Max highlights three standout films for viewers seeking a dose of Oscar-winning prestige. These selections provide a journey through different eras of filmmaking, showcasing enduring stories and masterful artistry.
“Casablanca”
Released in 1942, Michael Curtiz’s “Casablanca,” penned by Julius J. Epstein, Philip G. Epstein, and Howard Koch, is widely regarded as a cornerstone of cinematic history. The film consistently appears on lists of the greatest films ever made, celebrated as a landmark achievement in romance, war, and overall filmmaking.
The film’s enduring appeal stems from its captivating performances by Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, Max Steiner’s iconic musical score, and a screenplay rich with political allegory and compelling characters. “Casablanca” remains a timeless masterpiece, worthy of repeated viewings, especially during awards season.
“Flow”
Gints Zilbalodis’ 2025 film, “Flow,” achieved significant recognition at the Academy Awards. This dialogue-free animated film, created entirely on Blender, follows a cat’s struggle for survival amidst a post-apocalyptic flood, forging bonds with animal companions along the way. Every frame is described as both gorgeous and captivating.
“Flow” made history as the first independent film to win Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards, and also received a nomination for Best International Feature as Latvia’s entry. Both accolades are considered wholly deserved.
“Moonlight”
Barry Jenkins’ “Moonlight” is presented as a strong contender for the finest Best Picture winner of the 21st century. Based on a story by Tarell Alvin McCraney and initially conceived as an unproduced play titled “In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue,” the film employs a triptych structure, following the life of Chiron at three distinct stages: childhood (Alex Hibbert), adolescence (Ashton Sanders), and adulthood (Trevante Rhodes).
Jenkins’ screenplay explores themes of sexuality, masculinity, and societal pressures, portraying a young man’s journey of self-discovery. The film features a remarkable ensemble cast, including Janelle Monáe, Naomie Harris, André Holland, Jharrel Jerome, and Mahershala Ali. Mahershala Ali won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar, and “Moonlight’s” Best Picture win is remembered as a particularly rewarding moment in Academy Awards history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes “Casablanca” so highly regarded?
“Casablanca” is considered a masterpiece due to its captivating performances, iconic music, and a screenplay rich with political allegory and compelling characters.
What is unique about the animation in “Flow”?
“Flow” is notable for being animated entirely on Blender and for being the first independent film to win Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards.
How does “Moonlight” tell its story?
“Moonlight” uses a triptych structure, following the life of Chiron at three different ages, to explore themes of sexuality, masculinity, and societal pressures.
Which of these films will you choose to revisit or discover for the first time as you celebrate the spirit of the Academy Awards?