The Ultimate Guide to the Best HBO and Showtime TV Series: A Spectacular Lineup of South Side, Enlightened, The Leftovers, and More

Are you ready to dive into the world of captivating storytelling, complex characters, and unforgettable drama? Look no further! In this article, we will take you on a thrilling journey through the best TV series from HBO and Showtime, two powerhouses of exceptional television. From the gritty streets of South Side and the enigmatic world of The Leftovers, to the gripping tales of The Wire and the mesmerizing mysteries of Mare of Easttown, these shows will transport you to a realm of pure entertainment. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be hooked on some of the most compelling storytelling that television has to offer.

South Side

Recommended for: Fans of comedic hangout shows, wigs, and the White SoxNumber of seasons: 3

Sultan Salahuddin and Kareme Young, South Side

Comedy Central's South Side follows the journey of two friends in Chicago who aspire to become venture capitalists but are currently stuck with boring day jobs. Created by Bashir Salahuddin and Diallo Riddle, this show presents a delightfully unique world. It is the ultimate hangout show, featuring hilarious jokes and excellent characters. Once you start watching, you'll wonder why you didn't discover it sooner. -Allison Picurro[Trailer] 

Recommended for: Fans of silly and sad TV shows and thoughtful explorations of identityNumber of seasons: 2

Amanda Cordner and Bilal Baig, Sort Of

HBO Max's Sort Of is a tender and low-key dramedy that follows a non-binary millennial who decides to care for the young children they nanny after the mother of the family gets into an accident. It is a quietly groundbreaking series that authentically portrays everyday life without being self-important. Bilal Baig, the star and co-creator of this show, delivers a wonderful performance. Sort Of presents honest explorations of identity and surprises viewers with its subtle humor. It feels like a breath of fresh air in the world of television. -Allison Picurro[Trailer] 

Enlightened

Recommended for: Fans of canceled-too-soon greats and the genius of Laura DernNumber of seasons: 2

HBO's Enlightened, created by Mike White, is one of the best series produced by HBO. It stars Laura Dern, who delivers arguably her greatest TV performance. The show follows the journey of a former corporate executive who experiences a mental breakdown and seeks solace in a spiritual retreat. She then becomes an eco-friendly advocate and plots to take down the corporation she previously worked for. Enlightened is extremely touching, hilarious, and ahead of its time. -Allison Picurro[Trailer]

The Leftovers

Recommended for: Fans of confronting the unknown and purposely mysterious mythologyNumber of seasons: 3

Carrie Coon and Justin Theroux, The Leftovers

The Leftovers, co-created by Damon Lindelof and Tom Perrotta, offers a captivating and mysterious storyline in response to the controversy surrounding the Lost series finale. Set in the aftermath of the sudden vanishing of 2 percent of the world's population, the show evolves past its bleak first season to explore a more expansive and quietly magical narrative. The unrelenting anguish of the initial episodes contributes to the overall effect of the series, as it breaks its own rules and provides a thrilling and rebellious experience for the characters. The Leftovers captures the essence of life not as it is, but as it feels, and it will be remembered as a snapshot of a chaotic decade striving for grace. -Kelly Connolly [Trailer] 

Six Feet Under

Recommended for: Fans who appreciate the full spectrum of human emotion and family dramasNumber of seasons: 6

Frances Conroy, Lauren Ambrose, Peter Krause, Michael C. Hall, and Freddy Rodriguez, Six Feet Under

HBO's Six Feet Under, created by Alan Ball, revolves around the Fisher family who take over their late father's Los Angeles funeral home. This show is best known for its iconic series finale sequence, but every episode leading up to it is incredible as well. The Fisher family is dysfunctional and troubled, and the series fearlessly tackles the complexities of death and grief through frank and complicated discussions. Despite its dark tone, Six Feet Under is a truly special show that should not be missed. -Allison Picurro[Trailer]

Scenes From a Marriage

Recommended for: Fans of unhappy people in unhappy relationships and captivating monologuesNumber of seasons: 1

Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain, Scenes from a Marriage

Scenes from a Marriage is a remake of Ingmar Bergman's 1973 miniseries, starring Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain as an unhappily married couple. The series explores the complexities of their relationship as it fluctuates between love and hate. It is a compelling portrayal of the ever-changing dynamics in a marriage, capturing the realness and intensity of their connection. -Allison Picurro [Trailer] 

Mare of Easttown

Recommended for: Fans of Wawa, Philadelphia accents, and family tension with a side of murderNumber of seasons: 1

Kate Winslet, Mare of Easttown

Mare of Easttown tells the story of Mare, a detective in Pennsylvania, who investigates the murder of a local teenage girl while dealing with her own personal trauma. While the premise may seem similar to other crime shows, Mare of Easttown stands out with its enthralling mystery and its exploration of both real and imagined monsters. This series combines elements of sci-fi horror, a social justice drama, and a character study of damaged individuals. Kate Winslet delivers one of the best performances of her career, making this one-season show truly captivating from start to finish. -Allison Picurro [Trailer] 

The Wire

Recommended for: Fans of gritty stories about America, classic TV, and participating in the best TV show ever debateNumber of seasons: 5

Wendell Pierce and Dominic West, The Wire

HBO's The Wire, created by David Simon, is widely regarded as one of the greatest shows of all time. Set in Baltimore, this crime drama focuses on the city's drug trade, but it goes beyond that to explore various institutions and systems within the city, such as the government and the educational system. The Wire is unflinching, fascinating, and exposes the underbelly of American society. It is a masterfully crafted show that has stood the test of time. -Allison Picurro [Trailer] 

The Other Two

Recommended for: Fans of Molly Shannon and satirical takes on the entertainment industryNumber of seasons: 2

Drew Tarver and Helene York, The Other Two

The Other Two, created by Chris Kelly and Sarah Schneider, is one of the funniest shows on TV. It revolves around two forgotten older siblings, Cary and Brooke, who navigate life while their teenage brother becomes a world-famous pop star overnight. As their brother's star rises, Cary and Brooke find themselves struggling to establish their own careers in the entertainment industry. This satire is not cynical or smug; it primarily focuses on providing genuine laughter to its audience. The catchy song "My Brother's Gay (And That's Okay)" will surely get stuck in your head. And that's okay. -Allison Picurro [Trailer] 

David Makes Man

Recommended for: Fans of coming-of-age stories and magical realismNumber of seasons: 2

Isaiah Johnson and Akili McDowell, David Makes Man

David Makes Man is a remarkable coming-of-age drama from Tarell Alvin McCraney, co-writer of Moonlight. The first season follows 14-year-old David as he struggles to reconcile his life at a magnet school with his home life in the projects. The series depicts David's challenges with academic pressure, his mother's financial struggles, and the allure of the drug trade. Each world he inhabits is portrayed with empathy and humanity. The second season jumps ahead to David's adulthood, highlighting how the experiences of youth stay with individuals as they grow older. David Makes Man is suffused with magical realism and showcases the vibrant backdrop of South Florida. It leaves a vivid and unforgettable impression. -Kelly Connolly [Trailer]

Lovecraft Country

Recommended for: Fans of mixing the horrors of real life with Lovecraftian monster horrorsNumber of seasons: 1

Jurnee Smollett, Jonathan Majors, and Courtney B. Vance, Lovecraft Country

Lovecraft Country, adapted by Misha Green from Matt Ruff's book, is a thrilling adventure set in 1950s Jim Crow America. It follows a young Black man searching for his missing father, unaware that he will encounter both racists and Lovecraftian creatures. This genre-bending series combines elements of sci-fi horror and social justice drama, offering a riveting exploration of real and imagined monsters. Although it only lasted for one season, Lovecraft Country made a lasting impact. -Tim Surette [Trailer] 

The White Lotus

Recommended for: Fans of social satires, cursed hotels, and Jennifer CoolidgeNumber of seasons: 2

Aubrey Plaza, The White Lotus

The White Lotus, created by Mike White, is a riveting dramedy set at an exclusive Hawaiian resort. The first season explores the lives of its characters, who are either vacationing or working to meet the demands of wealthy clients. In Season 2, the setting changes to Italy and introduces a new cast of high-strung characters. This dark comedy showcases Mike White's talent for crafting intriguing stories that keep audiences engaged, even when the stakes seem low. It is a joy to watch and offers a fresh perspective on social satire. -Tim Surette [Trailer | Season 2 Review] 

More recommendations:

Gossip Girl

For fans of: The narration of Kristen Bell, flip phonesNumber of seasons: 6

Blake Lively and Leighton Meester, Gossip Girl

The CW

Gossip Girl is an iconic TV series from the late 2000s that revolves around a group of wealthy teenagers attending an elite Manhattan high school. Their scandalous lives are constantly monitored and exposed by the mysterious Gossip Girl. The show is a mix of silliness and perfection that brought fame to actors like Blake Lively, Leighton Meester, and Penn Badgley. In 2021, a revival was released on HBO Max, featuring a new cast. -Allison Picurro [Trailer]  

The Flight Attendant

For fans of: Questioning reality, communicating with the dead, the spirit of Alfred HitchcockNumber of seasons: 2

Kaley Cuoco, The Flight Attendant

Phil Caruso

The Flight Attendant is a darkly comedic thriller that follows the story of Cassie, a flight attendant portrayed by Kaley Cuoco. After waking up next to a dead body following a drunken night in Bangkok, Cassie embarks on a mission to clear her name and uncover the truth about what happened. The series brilliantly combines humor and suspense, with remarkable performances from the cast. -Kelly Connolly [Trailer | Season 2 Review]

I May Destroy You

For fans of: The brilliance of Michaela Coel, blending humor with tragedyNumber of seasons: 1

Michaela Coel, I May Destroy You

HBO

I May Destroy You is a powerful drama created, written, directed, and starring the talented Michaela Coel. The story follows Arabella, an author who experiences a traumatic event and struggles to piece together what happened. As she investigates and grapples with her own memories, Arabella also navigates her friendships and works on completing her book. The series tackles heavy topics while incorporating a clever sense of humor. -Liam Mathews [Trailer] 

Perry Mason

For fans of: Grizzled, hard-drinking detectives, rebootsNumber of seasons: 1

Matthew Rhys, Perry Mason

HBO

Perry Mason, portrayed by Matthew Rhys, returns in an HBO reboot of the classic series. Set in 1930s Los Angeles, the show follows Mason, a disheveled and grumpy private detective working on a case involving a murdered baby. The series combines elements of private-eye investigations and courtroom drama, accompanied by outstanding performances from a talented cast. -Tim Surette [Trailer] 

Insecure

For fans of: Talking to yourself in the mirror, female friendships, emotionally messy menNumber of seasons: 5

Yvonne Orji and Issa Rae, Insecure

Merie W. Wallace/HBOIssa Rae's Insecure is a remarkable comedy that centers around the character of Issa Dee, portrayed by Rae herself. The series delves into the lives of Issa and her best friend Molly (Yvonne Orji) as they navigate their careers, relationships, and personal growth. Insecure offers nuanced portrayals of Black women's friendships and addresses both the humorous and heartbreaking aspects of everyday life. It's a smart and hilarious comedy that stands out from the rest. -Allison Picurro [Trailer] 

Euphoria

For fans of: Twentysomething actors playing rebellious teenagers, glamorous makeup, ZendayaNumber of seasons: 2

HBOEuphoria is an enthralling series that follows the turbulent life of Rue, played by Zendaya. Rue is a high school student fresh out of rehab, determined not to stay sober. The show chronicles her toxic friendship with Jules and explores the experiences of their classmates as they navigate adolescence and search for their identities. Euphoria beautifully captures the unique struggles and despair of teenagers, coupled with visually stunning cinematography. -Allison Picurro [Trailer] 

Curb Your Enthusiasm

For fans of: Larry David and curmudgeonly charactersNumber of seasons: 11

Larry David, Curb Your Enthusiasm

John P. Johnson/HBOCurb Your Enthusiasm is a legendary show that follows Larry David, who plays a fictionalized version of himself. The series humorously explores the everyday inconveniences and annoyances that David encounters, resulting in hilarious and relatable moments. Despite running for 11 seasons, the show's distinctive humor has remained consistently entertaining. -Allison Picurro [Trailer] 

Barry

For fans of: Murder, actingNumber of seasons: 3

Merrick Morton/HBOBarry is a unique series that follows the story of a hitman named Barry, portrayed by Bill Hader, who aspires to become an actor. The show brilliantly balances comedy and drama as it explores Barry's internal struggles and the challenges he faces in pursuing his unconventional career goals. The ensemble cast delivers exceptional performances, making it a character study of damaged individuals. -Tim Surette [Trailer]  

The Sex Lives of College Girls

For fans of: The comedic style of Mindy Kaling, relatable college experiencesNumber of seasons: 2

Amrit Kaur, Pauline Chalamet, Alyah Chanelle Scott, and Reneé Rapp, The Sex Lives of College Girls

HBO Max

The Sex Lives of College Girls is a hilarious series produced by Mindy Kaling. It explores the lives of four freshman year roommates who navigate the ups and downs of college together. The show tackles various college experiences, including the awkwardness and excitement surrounding sexuality, with a refreshing and fun perspective. It also highlights the enduring bonds of friendship among its core characters. -Allison Picurro [Trailer] 

The Righteous Gemstones

For fans of: Danny McBride's comedic style, Succession with a religious twistNumber of seasons: 2

Adam Devine, Edi Patterson, and Danny McBride, The Righteous Gemstones

Ryan Green/HBOThe Righteous Gemstones is a dark comedy created by Danny McBride. It revolves around a famous televangelist family led by patriarch Eli, played by John Goodman. The series delves into the dynamics of the family and their constant competition to gain their father's favor and control the empire he has built. The show's humor is mixed with moments of despicable behavior from the characters, making for a hilarious and enjoyable viewing experience. -Allison Picurro [Trailer] 

Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty

For fans of: The energy of the late '70s/early '80s, basketball, Michael CooperNumber of seasons: 1

Quincy Isaiah, Winning Time

Warrick Page/HBO

Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty is an HBO series that chronicles the success of the Los Angeles Lakers. The first season focuses on the Showtime era of the Lakers, starting with the drafting of Magic Johnson and the ownership of Jerry Buss. The show captures the late '70s and early '80s energy and is shot to resemble the filming style of that era. It offers a unique look into the world of basketball, which will captivate both fans and newcomers to the sport. -Tim Surette [Trailer | Review]

The Sopranos

Recommended for: Fans of Italian culture, New Jersey, complex male characters

Number of seasons: 6

HBO/Getty Images

Have you heard of this TV show? David Chase's groundbreaking drama, The Sopranos, remains incredibly popular even years after its first airing. And it's well-deserved. This show is simply one of the best ever made. It follows the story of Tony Soprano, a mafia boss with complex emotions, brilliantly portrayed by James Gandolfini. As Tony tries to come to terms with the violence he has committed as a mob leader, he also faces the challenges of being a husband and father. The Sopranos is not just a captivating tale about Tony, but also an exploration of America, the impact of capitalism on people's souls, and even the significance of track suits. In fact, many of the shows that came after The Sopranos were inspired by its success. If you haven't seen it yet, you're in for a real treat.-Allison Picurro [Trailer]

Industry

Recommended for: Fans of corporate drama, young people in dramatic situations

Number of seasons: 2

Myha'la Herrold, Industry

Simon Ridgway/HBOIndustry is a phenomenal show that blends the world of corporate finance with the drama of young professionals. In this series, a group of ambitious bankers in London strive to secure their dream jobs at a prestigious investment bank. While navigating the intricacies of their careers, they also find themselves entangled in complex personal relationships. The finance world is filled with constant chaos and shifting alliances. And as viewers, we get a front-row seat to the gripping drama that unfolds. Plus, the presence of Jay Duplass adds another layer of brilliance to the show. Trust me, Industry is a must-watch. -Allison Picurro [Trailer]

Search Party

Recommended for: Fans of satirical comedies, crime stories, genre-blending

Number of seasons: 5

Alia Shawkat, John Early, John Reynolds, and Meredith Hagner, Search Party

Mark Schafer/HBO MaxSearch Party initially flew under the radar during its first two seasons on TBS. Fortunately, HBO Max recognized its brilliance and rescued it from obscurity. This satirical comedy stars Alia Shawkat as Dory, a young woman from Brooklyn who decides to find a former college classmate who has mysteriously disappeared. However, the show quickly evolves into something much darker and audacious, seamlessly blending different genres like crime thrillers and courtroom dramas. With its sharp humor, Search Party takes viewers on a thrilling and hilarious journey. Even if you're unfamiliar with the show, I highly recommend giving it a chance. -Allison Picurro [Trailer]

Tokyo Vice

Recommended for: Fans of moody crime thrillers, stunning visuals

Number of seasons: 1

Eros Hoagland/HBO Max

Tokyo Vice is an exciting series that marks the return of the great Michael Mann to television after more than a decade. This gripping crime drama, based on the memoir by journalist Jake Adelstein, takes us into the underbelly of Tokyo where corruption thrives. Ansel Elgort delivers a captivating performance as Adelstein, who uncovers a web of deceit and misconduct within the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department. With a talented cast that includes Rinko Kikuchi, Ken Watanabe, and Rachel Keller, and Mann's masterful direction, Tokyo Vice is a visually stunning and enthralling series.-Allison Picurro [Trailer | Review]

The Boondocks

Recommended for: Fans of animated social commentary, Regina King's voice acting

Number of seasons: 4

Adult Swim

Aaron McGruder's satirical cartoon, The Boondocks, follows the story of Huey, a wise-beyond-his-years 10-year-old who lives in a predominantly white suburb with his younger brother, Riley, and their grandfather. Huey carries the weight of the world on his shoulders, constantly challenging the broken systems and flawed adults around him. The Boondocks brilliantly explores the various aspects of the Black experience in the United States. Despite first airing in 2005, the show's commentary on race, class, identity, and government remains incredibly relevant. If you appreciate shows with social and political depth, The Boondocks is a must-watch. -Allison Picurro [Trailer]

Perry Mason

Recommended for: Fans of gritty detective stories, reboots

Number of seasons: 1

Matthew Rhys, Perry Mason

HBO

You may remember Perry Mason as the iconic defense attorney, but this HBO reboot takes a different approach. Matthew Rhys delivers a fantastic performance as a disheveled and grumpy Perry Mason, a private investigator working on a case involving the murder of a baby in 1930s Los Angeles. The show's eight-episode season is filled with private-eyeing, courtroom drama, and a stellar cast, including Tatiana Maslany, John Lithgow, and Stephen Root. The production design beautifully brings Depression-era Los Angeles to life, making Perry Mason a visual delight. While the story may have some shortcomings, the performances and visuals are more than enough to keep you hooked. -Tim Surette [Trailer]

Rick & Morty

Recommended for: Fans of dimension-hopping adventures, intelligent humor

Number of seasons: 5

Adult Swim

Rick & Morty is an animated sci-fi/comedy series that takes audiences on a wild adventure through different dimensions. The show follows the brilliant yet psychotic scientist Rick and his naive grandson Morty as they navigate the universe and encounter eccentric characters along the way. While some may dismiss it as just a crude cartoon, Rick & Morty goes beyond expectations by delving into the backstories and emotions of its characters. Each episode offers more than just sci-fi parody, and the show's intelligent humor keeps viewers engaged. Whether you're a fan of animated series or intricate storytelling, Rick & Morty is an absolute must-watch. -Allison Picurro [Trailer]

Watchmen

Recommended for: Fans of unconventional superhero stories

Number of seasons: 1

HBO

Based on the graphic novel by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons, Watchmen is a superhero story like no other. Created by Damon Lindelof, this series captivates both superhero enthusiasts and those who aren't typically drawn to the genre. Set in an alternate version of Tulsa, Oklahoma, it explores a world where police officers hide their identities for protection. The story picks up decades after the events of the original Watchmen story and centers around Angela Abar, portrayed powerfully by Regina King. As Angela becomes entangled in a mysterious conspiracy following the death of a colleague, the show also sheds light on the 1921 Tulsa race massacre. With its superb acting, thought-provoking themes, and skillful storytelling, Watchmen is a triumph in television. -Allison Picurro [Trailer]

Frayed

Recommended for: Fans of complex female characters and compelling family dynamics

Number of seasons: 2

HBO Max

Set in the late '80s, Frayed is a dramedy that revolves around Sarah Kendall's character. After her husband's death leaves her family in financial ruin, she is forced to move with her two children from London back to her hometown in Newcastle, Australia. In this journey, she must confront the unresolved issues of her past, including the fact that she has been pretending to have a British accent. With its blend of humor and drama, Frayed features complex characters and sharp writing that will leave you wanting more. Trust me when I say that two seasons are just not enough of this fantastic series. -Allison Picurro [Trailer]

Starstruck

Recommended for: Fans of romantic comedies, charming love stories

Number of seasons: 2

Mark Johnson/HBO Max

Starstruck is a delightful romantic-comedy series that will capture your heart. The show follows Jessie, played by creator Rose Matafeo, a New Zealander living in London who has an unexpected encounter with a famous movie star named Tom on New Year's Eve. As they spend time together, Jessie realizes the true identity of her new love interest. What ensues is a charming and hilarious series that pays homage to classic screwball comedies. The chemistry between the leads and the witty writing make Starstruck a joy to watch. Prepare to be swept off your feet by this wonderful series. -Kelly Connolly [Trailer]

Warrior

Recommended for: Fans of Bruce Lee, historical dramas with a twist

Number of seasons: 2

David Bloomer/CinemaxWarrior is not only a breakthrough in Asian representation on screen but also an enthralling action drama that deserves attention. Based on the writings of Bruce Lee and brought to life by his daughter Shannon, Warrior is set during the Tong Wars in late 19th century San Francisco. The series, filled with brutality and surprising twists, unveils a captivating story about immigrants fighting for survival and freedom in a country that barely tolerates them. With its fusion of elements from Peaky Blinders and Gangs of New York, Warrior offers a unique perspective on history, race, and resilience. It's a gripping watch that shouldn't be missed.-Tim Surette [Trailer]

Ten Year Old Tom

Recommended for: Fans of adult animation, adults voicing child characters

Number of seasons: 1

HBO

Ten Year Old Tom, the new animated series from creator Steve Dildarian, is a hilarious portrayal of a 10-year-old navigating adulthood. With its unique animation style and perspective, Ten Year Old Tom retains the charm of Dildarian's previous work, The Life & Times of Tim. Though this new series promises to be just as funny, it may be lacking the presence of hookers from its predecessor. -Tim Surette [Trailer]

The Way Down

For fans of: True crime, cult leaders, tall hairNumber of seasons: 1

HBO Max

"The Way Down" is a true crime series that explores the story of Gwen Shamblin Lara, the founder of the Remnant Fellowship Church. Combining the worship of Jesus Christ with a weight-loss program, the church faced accusations of being a cult. Gwen Shamblin Lara, who rose to fame as a best-selling author of "The Weigh Down Diet," founded the church in 1999 and led it until May of 2021. The church received criticism for its emphasis on appearance and the creation of a Stepford Wives-like community of women, using religion to drive business. -Kelly Connolly [Trailer] 

Landscapers

For fans of: British murder mysteries, twisty genre-bendingNumber of seasons: 1

Olivia Colman stars in "Landscapers"

Stefania Rosini/HBO

"Landscapers" is an intriguing miniseries inspired by the real-life story of Christopher and Susan Edwards. Set in a very polite British environment, the show follows the married couple, played by Olivia Colman and David Thewlis, who were sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Susan's parents. The couple proceeded to bury the bodies in their backyard. With its captivating storyline and the involvement of Olivia Colman, known for her exceptional acting skills, "Landscapers" is a must-watch for fans of twisty genre-bending dramas. -Allison Picurro [Trailer] 

Peacemaker

For fans of: Muscles, violence, perverted jokesNumber of seasons: 1

John Cena stars in "Peacemaker"John Cena brings his character Peacemaker from "The Suicide Squad" comics to HBO Max in this action-packed series. Written by James Gunn, the creator of the show, "Peacemaker" follows the story of a buff guy who goes to extreme lengths to achieve peace, often resorting to violence. The show maintains the unique and entertaining tone of "The Suicide Squad" and explores the origin story of one of the most beloved characters from the film. With its mix of muscles, violence, and perverted jokes, "Peacemaker" is a delight for fans of this genre. -Tim Surette [Trailer]

Station Eleven

For fans of: Dystopian worlds, pandemic stories, the city of ChicagoNumber of seasons: 1

Himesh Patel and Matilda Lawler star in "Station Eleven"

Parrish Lewis/HBO Max

"Station Eleven" offers a unique take on dystopian worlds and pandemic stories. Based on Emily St. John Mandel's novel of the same name, the series transports viewers to a post-apocalyptic world where a global pandemic has devastated society. It follows a group of survivors as they navigate the challenges of a post-virus future, alternating between flashbacks to the pre-virus past. With its compelling storyline and stellar cast featuring Gael García Bernal, Mackenzie Davis, and Himesh Patel, "Station Eleven" is a must-watch for fans of dystopian narratives. -Allison Picurro [Trailer] 

Genndy Tartakovsky's Primal

For fans of: Prehistoric times, stunning animation, unlikely friendshipsNumber of seasons: 2

"Genndy Tartakovsky's Primal" is an Emmy-winning animated series that takes viewers to prehistoric times. The show follows the journey of a caveman named Spear and his unexpected friendship with a Tyrannosaurus named Fang. Together, they face the challenges of a brutal prehistoric world filled with man-eating dinosaurs, savage primates, and supernatural beings. With its stunning animation and powerful storytelling, "Genndy Tartakovsky's Primal" stands out as one of the best shows on TV, appealing to fans of prehistoric settings and unlikely friendships. Episodes premiere on Adult Swim and stream on HBO Max the following day. -Tim Surette [Trailer] 

The Staircase

For fans of: Murder mysteries, great performances, owlsNumber of seasons: 1

Colin Firth and Toni Collette star in "The Staircase"

HBO Max

"The Staircase" is a scripted miniseries that delves into the intriguing world of murder mysteries. Based on a true story, the show follows the author Michael Peterson, portrayed by Colin Firth, who was accused of killing his wife after she allegedly fell down the stairs. With an impressive ensemble cast including Toni Collette, Parker Posey, Sophie Turner, and Michael Stuhlbarg, "The Staircase" offers captivating performances and adds new elements to the story, including the making of the documentary. Whether you're familiar with the original documentary or not, this adaptation provides a fresh perspective on the case. -Allison Picurro [Trailer]

Julia

For fans of: Julia Child, French food, women succeeding despite the oddsNumber of seasons: 1

Sarah Lancashire stars in "Julia"

Seacia Pavao/HBO Max

"Julia" is a half-hour comedy series that celebrates the life of the iconic celebrity chef Julia Child. Starring Sarah Lancashire, the show takes viewers back to 1960s Boston, where Julia Child rose to TV stardom by introducing the art of French cooking to American audiences. The series sheds light on the challenges Julia Child faced, including rampant sexism and ageism, as she pursued her passion and achieved success. With its strong performances and exploration of important themes, "Julia" is a delightful and inspiring watch for fans of Julia Child, French cuisine, and stories of women overcoming obstacles. Bon appétit! -Allison Picurro [Trailer]

Irma Vep

For fans of: When TV shows feel like very cool movies, meta commentaryNumber of seasons: 1

Alicia Vikander stars in "Irma Vep"

Carole Bethuel/HBO

"Irma Vep" is a limited series adaptation of the 1996 movie of the same name by Olivier Assayas. It stands out as one of the coolest shows of 2022, offering a stylish and layered viewing experience. Alicia Vikander portrays a disillusioned actress filming a remake of a classic French silent film called "Les Vampires" in France. The series provides meta commentary on the film industry, while featuring great music and fashionable clothing. With its chic aesthetic and Vikander's Academy Award-winning talent, "Irma Vep" is a must-watch for those who appreciate TV shows that resemble very cool movies. -Allison Picurro [Trailer] 

The Tourist

For fans of: Tense thrillers, stylish crime, AustraliaNumber of seasons: 1

Jamie Dornan stars in "The Tourist"

Ian Routledge/Two Brothers Pictures

"The Tourist" may have flown under the radar for many viewers, as it was released overseas prior to its availability on HBO Max. However, this mystery thriller is worth watching. Jamie Dornan leads the cast as a British man who suffers from amnesia after a car accident. As he tries to uncover the truth about his past and why people want him dead, the story takes viewers on a suspenseful journey set in Australia. With its slick direction, sly humor, and standout performances by Dornan and Danielle Macdonald, "The Tourist" is a gripping and underrated series that deserves more recognition. -Tim Surette [Trailer]

Barry (2023)

Bill Hader has proven his talent as both a performer and a storyteller with "Barry." Over the course of four seasons, Hader, who co-created the show with Alec Berg, has masterfully crafted a blend of comedy and drama. The series follows the journey of an ex-marine and hitman named Barry, as he tries to reform himself by enrolling in an acting class. With exceptional performances by Henry Winkler, Sarah Goldberg, Stephen Root, and Anthony Carrigan, "Barry" offers a thought-provoking and sometimes dark exploration of its protagonist's quest for redemption. Blurring the lines between comedy and drama, the show's unique balance has garnered numerous Emmy nominations and critical acclaim. It is a must-watch for fans of great storytelling and Hader's remarkable range as an actor.—Eliza Berman

Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin

For fans of: Pretty Little LiarsNumber of seasons: 1

Malia Pyles stars in "Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin"

Karolina Wojtasik/HBO Max

"Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin" is a reboot of the popular series "Pretty Little Liars." Set in a new town and featuring a new group of teenage girls, the show explores the haunting repercussions of sins committed by their parents two decades earlier. While it stands within the original "Pretty Little Liars" universe, the series offers a fresh storyline and introduces viewers to a new set of liars. Whether you're a fan of the original series or not, "Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin" has garnered solid reviews and is worth checking out. -Allison Picurro [Trailer]

In a world filled with countless options for binge-worthy television shows, HBO and Showtime have consistently delivered some of the best series to captivate and entertain audiences. From the gritty streets of "The Wire" to the mysterious small town of "Mare of Easttown," these networks have proven time and time again that they know how to craft compelling narratives and unforgettable characters. Whether you're craving intense drama, thought-provoking storytelling, or side-splitting comedy, HBO and Showtime have you covered. So why wait? Dive into these must-watch shows and let yourself be transported to worlds that will leave you hooked and craving for more. Happy watching!