December 2024 is setting the stage for the highly anticipated releases on Max, the streaming platform formerly known as HBO Max. The lineup boasts everything from animated adventures to poignant documentaries, ensuring there’s something for every viewer.
The month kicks off with the documentary series Hard Knocks: The Season with the AFC North, premiering on December 3. This unique series offers “all-access” coverage of the AFC North division, featuring teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens. The famed franchise has been awarded 18 Emmys for its insightful representation of life within the NFL, and this installment aims to provide fans with detailed looks at both training and game strategies as the teams vie for the division title.
Shortly after, on December 5, the platform introduces the Max Original animated series Creature Commandos. This seven-episode series, laid out across multiple weeks, has caught viewers' attention with its premise: incarcerated monsters are recruited for dangerous missions too risky for humans. With Steve Agee, Maria Bakalova, and David Harbour leading the voice cast, the series explores the twisted and often humorous side of superhero storytelling based on DC characters, binding together elements of fantasy, horror, and action.
On December 7, the documentary Superman: The Christopher Reeve Story will premiere, chronicling the life of the beloved actor. This film delves deep, featuring voices from Reeve himself, friends, and family to draw the audience through his transformative life from superstar to advocacy for disability rights, particularly after sustained injuries sustained from an accident. The documentary, backed by HBO and CNN films, promises to be as inspiring as it is heartbreaking.
Then, on December 10, HBO brings us Nature of the Crime. This documentary shines light on the often-murky world of US parole board decisions, following two men who were convicted as teenagers. It captures the nuances of crime, punishment, and rehabilitation, setting the stage for significant conversations about justice reform.
Starting December 12, Max viewers can catch the much-anticipated return of Bookie, which rolls out its second season with weekly episodes. Created by Chuck Lorre, known for his work on The Big Bang Theory, the dark comedy follows Danny, played by Sebastian Maniscalco, as he navigates the competitive world of sports betting with his band of misfit friends. This season promises guest appearances from familiar faces like Charlie Sheen and Zach Braff, offering additional humor to this outrageous take on gambling culture.
The month wouldn’t be complete without nostalgia, and Max has just the thing. Fast Friends, premiering on December 19, is a game show celebrating the iconic series Friends. Hosted by Whitney Cummings, this four-part series utilizes some of the show’s iconic sets, including Monica's apartment and Central Perk, for trivia competitions and games, inviting fans to relive the laughter and memorable moments of the original series.
Also on December 19, viewers can look forward to Rose Matafeo: On and On and On, another stand-up performance from the creator of Starstruck. Matafeo’s comedy draws from her experiences with relationships and personal growth, making it relatable and thoughtful.
Max will wrap up the month with the highly anticipated film Juror #2 on December 20. Directed by Clint Eastwood, this gripping legal drama follows Justin Kemp, who is facing moral dilemmas as he serves on the jury of a high-profile murder case. With talented stars like Nicholas Hoult and Toni Collette, this film aims to challenge views on justice and personal accountability.
Looking forward to the end of December, fans have their eyes set on Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, which houses both comedy and horror under its wings. This film features returning actors like Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder, promising to recount the mischievous ghost’s antics as new characters join the fray. Notably, the platform will offer ASL interpretations for the film, ensuring accessibility for viewers across the board.
Recently, Max also revealed key programming decisions affecting fan-favorite series. Harley Quinn’s Season 5, expected to be released soon, appeared missing from the December schedule, hinting at potential delays. While this sparked concern among devoted fans, the omission does not completely exclude the possibility of late December surprises. Co-creator Dean Lorey had previously indicated hopes for later releases, intensifying the anticipation around the new season as audiences countdown the days.
With exciting new shows, documentaries, and films launching this December, Max is solidifying its corner of the streaming market, aiming to balance nostalgia with fresh content. Each offering not only entertains but also highlights pressing themes of governance, identity, and humanity, keeping viewers engaged during the holiday season and beyond.
