7 Great HBO Max Mystery Shows to Binge Right Now

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For enthusiasts yearning to immerse themselves in a baffling whodunit TV series, HBO Max offers a wealth of intriguing choices. Since its initial debut as HBO Go over 15 years ago, this streaming platform has accumulated an impressive collection of TV programs. Iconic shows such as “Game of Thrones,” “The Sopranos,” and “The Wire” have laid the groundwork for contemporary hits like “Succession,” “The White Lotus,” and “The Last of Us.” HBO Max’s library is rich in some of the mystery genre’s finest productions, boasting everything from nail-biting detective tales to nerve-wracking murder mysteries. There’s a cornucopia of engaging and award-winning series waiting to delight fans of the genre.

HBO Max subscribers need to add these amazing mystery series to their watchlist now.

1) Mare of Easttown

The critically acclaimed mystery series, “Mare of Easttown” on HBO, can be considered the shining gem among original shows. Nestled in a small town in Pennsylvania, this limited series centers around tenacious detective Mare Sheehan, played by Kate Winslet, who grapples with both personal and professional hurdles as the murder of a local teenager upsets the community. With four Emmys under its belt, “Mare of Easttown” boasts exceptional acting from Winslet, Evan Peters, and Julianne Nicholson, while weaving an engaging mystery filled with numerous unexpected twists and turns. As viewers become engrossed in trying to guess the murderer’s identity, they will find themselves drawn back again and again before reaching the series’ captivating finale. It’s rare to find a show that handles a murder mystery as skillfully as “Mare of Easttown,” making it hard for binge-watchers to resist.

2) Sharp Objects

In essence, being patient while watching the HBO miniseries ‘Sharp Objects’ is crucial as it offers a rewarding experience. Inspired by Gillian Flynn’s novel, this series revolves around Camille Preaker (portrayed by Amy Adams), a troubled reporter delving into the murders of two young girls in her small hometown. The narrative progressively unravels layers of self-harm, addiction, and complex familial relationships that Camille encounters.

‘Sharp Objects’ is not what it initially appears to be, as it skillfully keeps its audience guessing until the final, jaw-dropping twist. Adams masterfully portrays a character grappling with her past and present struggles, making for an engrossing viewing experience. Fans of slow-burn narratives will find themselves hooked on this series, and its powerful finale is likely to leave a lasting impression.

3) The Outsider

HBO’s “The Outsider” is a captivating adaptation of Stephen King’s novel, featuring a compelling script and top-tier acting talent. In this 10-episode limited series, detective Ralph Anderson, portrayed by Ben Mendelsohn, delves into the grisly murder of a young boy. As Ralph initially believes he has found the culprit, unearthed evidence hints at something otherworldly and deeply malevolent being involved. From beginning to end, “The Outsider” keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its unforeseen plot twists. Cynthia Erivo, Jason Bateman, and numerous others deliver impressive performances alongside Mendelsohn. The series’ suspenseful atmosphere and richly developed characters make it a hard-to-resist binge, while the final episodes offer plenty of unexpected turns and excitement.

4) Big Little Lies

The television series “Big Little Lies” stands out for its exceptional cast, with HBO shows rarely boasting such talent. The murder mystery plot is equally captivating. Adapted from Liane Moriarty’s book of the same name, the show revolves around five women living in Monterey, California who become entangled in a homicide investigation. In Season 1, viewers are taken back in time before the murder, uncovering the secrets and personal dramas of each character. Season 2 delves into the aftermath and legal proceedings, leaving room for a possible third season. Although “Big Little Lies” may not possess the usual tension and unsettling atmosphere found in most murder mysteries, its engrossing narrative driven by well-developed characters makes for an enticing watch. Notably, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Zöe Kravitz, Shailene Woodley, and Laura Dern deliver standout performances. Overall, “Big Little Lies” is a must-watch for HBO Max subscribers, so don’t hesitate to start binge-watching it immediately.

5) True Detective

In simpler terms, “True Detective” offers four captivating seasons of conventional murder mysteries, perfect for binge-watching. The series takes place in diverse time periods and locations throughout the U.S., with each season introducing fresh enigmas and characters. Dark themes such as murders, abductions, and other chilling crimes form the core of the show, creating unsettling environments and high-intensity scenes. Although it doesn’t push any boundaries in the mystery genre, its traditional execution is nearly flawless. Distinctive character development and intricate plots that keep viewers guessing until the final episode are hallmarks of “True Detective,” making it a must-see for mystery enthusiasts on HBO Max.

6) The Investigation

Many HBO Max subscribers might not be familiar with “The Investigation”, but this captivating Danish miniseries is definitely worth watching. The show is based on a real-life investigation into the 2017 murder of a Swedish journalist, and even those who aren’t familiar with the true story will find it compelling. It meticulously recounts the events of the case, treating the subject matter with the gravity it deserves.

While “The Investigation” isn’t the most action-packed crime show, its thoughtful exploration of the criminal case is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers. Søren Malling delivers a standout performance as Chief Inspector Jens Møller, and the series benefits greatly from its talented supporting cast. Overall, “The Investigation” is an engaging and emotionally powerful watch that should not be missed.

7) The Alienist

The television series titled “The Alienist” stands out as one of the underappreciated mystery shows on HBO Max. Over two seasons, it’s loosely based on Caleb Carr’s novel by the same name. Set in the late 1800s, the show focuses on a string of gruesome murders happening in New York City that a criminal psychologist and an artist from a newspaper must solve. Not only does “The Alienist” keep viewers engaged with its intriguing mystery, but it also provides an engaging portrayal of the period through accurate depictions of justice and corruption. The talented lead actors Daniel Brühl, Luke Evans, and Dakota Fanning bring their captivating characters to life as they navigate various unexpected challenges in the case. Crime drama enthusiasts who like binge-worthy shows will find “The Alienist” highly enjoyable due to its impressive cast, well-developed characters, and intricate plotline.

All of these titles are available to stream on HBO Max.

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2025-08-17 18:26