3 Underrated HBO Max Movies To Watch This Weekend (March 14-16)

Felix Dubois

4 min read

Post on May 27, 2025

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"The Farewell" (2019) – A Masterclass in Family Dynamics and Subtle Humor

This underrated comedy-drama is a must-watch HBO Max movie. "The Farewell" masterfully blends humor and tragedy, exploring the complexities of family relationships and cultural differences.

Heartwarming Story & Stellar Cast

Awkwafina delivers one of her best performances, portraying Billi, a young Chinese-American woman who returns to China to see her dying grandmother. The emotional core of the film lies in the family's decision to keep the grandmother's illness a secret, staging a "farewell" celebration disguised as a wedding.

• Unique blend of comedy and tragedy: The film seamlessly interweaves moments of laughter with profound sadness, creating a deeply moving and relatable experience.
• Compelling family relationships: The film explores the intricacies of familial bonds, highlighting both the love and the unspoken tensions within the family.
• Cultural nuances: "The Farewell" beautifully captures the cultural differences between American and Chinese family dynamics, enriching the narrative with authenticity.

Why it's Underrated

Despite critical acclaim and a strong showing at the box office, "The Farewell" remains a somewhat under-the-radar film. It's a critical darling that deserves wider recognition.

• Hidden gem: Compared to other popular comedy-dramas of its time, "The Farewell" offers a more nuanced and emotionally resonant experience.
• Underappreciated masterpiece: Its subtle humor and powerful emotional core make it a truly special film, deserving a spot on your list of must-watch HBO Max movies.

"The Peanut Butter Falcon" (2019) – An Adventure with Heart

This charming indie film is a feel-good movie that will leave you smiling. "The Peanut Butter Falcon" tells the heartwarming story of Zak, a young man with Down syndrome who runs away to pursue his dream of becoming a professional wrestler. He forms an unlikely friendship with Tyler, a small-time outlaw on the run.

Charming Story and Unique Characters

The film's success lies in the remarkable chemistry between Shia LaBeouf and Zack Gottsagen, who delivers a breakout performance. Their journey together is full of laughter, unexpected twists, and heartwarming moments.

• Feel-good movie: This is a quintessential feel-good movie filled with hope, humor, and inspiring moments.
• Unexpected friendship: The bond between Zak and Tyler is the heart of the film, showcasing the power of connection and acceptance.
• Road trip adventure: The film's road trip setting adds to the charm, creating a sense of freedom and adventure.

Why it's Underrated

While beloved by critics and fans, "The Peanut Butter Falcon" didn't achieve the widespread recognition it deserves. It's a hidden cinematic gem waiting to be discovered.

• Hidden gem: Its unique blend of comedy, drama, and adventure makes it stand out from other indie films.
• Heartfelt message: The film promotes inclusivity and celebrates the power of friendship, offering a heartwarming message for audiences of all ages.
• Must-see indie: This offbeat adventure is a must-see for those seeking a truly unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.

"Palm Springs" (2020) – A Hilarious and Heartfelt Time Loop Rom-Com

This unique romantic comedy is a surprisingly hilarious and clever take on the time-loop trope. "Palm Springs" follows Nyles and Sarah, two wedding guests who find themselves trapped in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over.

Clever Plot and Strong Performances

Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti deliver stellar performances, creating a dynamic and captivating duo. The film's wit and originality make it stand out from other time-loop movies.

• Unique romantic comedy: It offers a fresh take on the genre, blending humor, romance, and existential themes.
• Time-loop movie: The innovative use of the time-loop concept keeps the audience guessing, while providing opportunities for hilarious and heartfelt moments.
• Clever and funny: "Palm Springs" is both intelligent and laugh-out-loud funny, offering a truly engaging cinematic experience.

Why it's Underrated (Despite Positive Reviews)

Despite critical praise and a positive reception from audiences, "Palm Springs" didn't receive the widespread recognition it deserved, perhaps due to its relatively quiet release compared to major studio productions and a surprising lack of major award nominations compared to other time loop films.

• Cult classic in the making: Its unique premise and sharp writing suggest it's destined to become a cult classic.
• Undiscovered gem: "Palm Springs" is an undiscovered gem waiting to be appreciated by a wider audience.
• Surprisingly hilarious: Its unexpected humor and engaging characters will have you laughing from beginning to end.

Conclusion

This weekend, escape the ordinary and dive into these three underrated HBO Max movies. From heartwarming family dramas to hilarious time-loop adventures, there's something here for everyone. Don't miss out on these cinematic gems—start streaming these underrated HBO Max movies today! Explore the diverse selection of underrated films available on HBO Max and discover your next favorite movie!