All the Movies Coming to HBO Max in February 2026

The streaming landscape on Max expands significantly this February with a diverse slate of cinematic releases ranging from Golden Age classics to contemporary thrillers. Subscribers can look forward to a robust collection of Academy Award winners, cult comedies, and brand-new streaming premieres throughout the month. The additions include a mixture of historical dramas, animated family features, and suspenseful new originals. Whether you are seeking a nostalgic trip through Hollywood history or the latest independent horror, this month’s lineup offers a comprehensive selection for every type of viewer.

‘Vacation from Marriage’ (1945)

Arriving on Max on February 1, 1945, this British drama explores the transformative effects of World War II on a mundane married couple. Robert Donat and Deborah Kerr star as a husband and wife who join the military and find their personal horizons expanded by the conflict. After years apart, they fear they have grown too different to reconcile their former domestic life. The film won the Academy Award for Best Story for its poignant depiction of wartime social shifts. It remains a notable example of mid-century cinema focusing on internal emotional development.

‘Aftermath’ (2017)

This somber drama joins the platform on February 1, featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger in a role inspired by the real-life Überlingen mid-air collision. The narrative follows a construction foreman who loses his wife and daughter in a tragic airplane accident caused by an air traffic controller’s error. Consumed by grief and a lack of closure from the airline, he seeks a personal apology from the man he holds responsible. The film explores themes of revenge, accountability, and the long-lasting psychological trauma of sudden loss. It showcases a restrained performance from its lead actor in a departure from his typical action-oriented roles.

‘The Yearling’ (1947)

This beloved family classic becomes available on February 1, based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings. Set in the post-Civil War era in Florida, it tells the story of a young boy who adopts an orphaned fawn. As the deer grows and begins to destroy the family’s essential crops, the boy is forced to face a heartbreaking decision that signifies his transition into adulthood. Gregory Peck and Jane Wyman provide powerful performances as the boy’s parents struggling to survive in the wilderness. The film is celebrated for its lush Technicolor cinematography and emotional depth.

‘Laughing Sinners’ (1931)

Available starting February 1, this early talkie features Joan Crawford as a cabaret dancer whose life takes a downward turn after a romantic rejection. Following a suicide attempt, she finds redemption through the kindness of a Salvation Army officer, played by Clark Gable. The story explores themes of moral rehabilitation and the societal pressures placed on independent women during the early 20th century. This film is a significant entry in the pre-Code era, showcasing the raw energy and stardom of its leading actors. It offers viewers a glimpse into the evolving narrative styles of early 1930s Hollywood.

‘The Spectacular Now’ (2013)

Streaming on February 1, this coming-of-age drama focuses on the blossoming relationship between a charismatic, hard-partying high school senior and a shy, introverted classmate. Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley deliver acclaimed performances that capture the complexities of teenage intimacy and the fear of the future. The film avoids typical genre clichés by grounding its narrative in realistic dialogue and difficult family dynamics involving alcoholism and abandonment. It serves as a grounded look at the transition to adulthood and the impact of personal choices on others. The production was widely praised for its authenticity and sensitive direction.

‘2073’ (2024)

This genre-bending film arrives on the service on February 1, blending elements of a dystopian sci-fi drama with documentary-style social commentary. Directed by Asif Kapadia, the story is set in a future New San Francisco where a woman named Ghost lives off the grid to escape a surveillance state. The narrative uses Ghost’s perspective to reflect on real-world issues such as climate change, corporate fascism, and the erosion of democratic institutions. Samantha Morton provides the central performance in a world where technology is used to suppress dissent and human freedom. The film serves as a cautionary exploration of the paths leading from the present day toward a potential global crisis.

‘Kitty Foyle’ (1940)

Landing on Max on February 1, this classic drama earned Ginger Rogers the Academy Award for Best Actress. The story follows a working-class woman who must choose between a wealthy socialite she loves and a dependable doctor from her own social strata. Through a series of flashbacks, the film examines the class barriers and social expectations that defined American life in the mid-20th century. It was based on a popular novel by Christopher Morley and resonated deeply with audiences of the time for its portrayal of the “modern” working girl. The film is a hallmark of the sophisticated melodramas produced during Hollywood’s Golden Age.

‘Love Happens’ (2009)

This romantic drama arrives on February 1, starring Aaron Eckhart as a successful self-help author who specializes in coping with grief. While leading a seminar in Seattle, he meets a floral designer played by Jennifer Aniston and finds himself unable to follow his own advice. The story explores the protagonist’s struggle to process his own wife’s death while maintaining a public persona of emotional stability. It deals with the themes of genuine healing versus superficial recovery in the wake of tragedy. The film provides a gentle look at the messy process of opening up to someone new after a significant loss.

‘The Perfect Match’ (2016)

Starting February 1, subscribers can watch this romantic comedy about a playboy sports agent who believes that relationships are obsolete. His perspective is challenged after he makes a bet with his friends that he can remain committed to one woman for a month. Things become complicated when he meets a mysterious woman who seems to be just as uninterested in long-term attachment as he is. The film features an ensemble cast including Terrence J and Cassie Ventura, exploring modern dating culture and the fear of vulnerability. It offers a lighthearted take on the traditional tropes of the “reformed bachelor” narrative.

‘The Story of Louis Pasteur’ (1936)

Available on February 1, this biographical film depicts the life and struggles of the famed French microbiologist. Paul Muni portrays Pasteur as he fights against the skepticism of the medical establishment to prove his theories on germ theory and vaccinations. The narrative focuses on his tireless work to cure anthrax and rabies, highlighting the perseverance required to advance scientific understanding. Muni’s performance earned him an Academy Award, and the film is credited with popularizing the “biopic” genre in Hollywood. It serves as an inspiring look at the intersection of science, ethics, and human progress.

‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ (1945)

This adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s classic novel joins the library on February 1. It tells the story of a handsome young man who remains eternally youthful while a painted portrait of him ages and records his many sins. Hurd Hatfield portrays the titular character as he descends into a life of hedonism and cruelty, shielded from the physical consequences of his actions. The film is notable for its use of Technicolor inserts to show the gruesome changes to the painting in an otherwise black-and-white production. It remains a definitive cinematic take on Wilde’s themes of vanity, morality, and the corruption of the soul.

‘Zola’ (2021)

Arriving on February 1, this contemporary drama is famously based on a viral Twitter thread from 2015. The film follows a waitress who is convinced by a new acquaintance to travel to Florida for a weekend of lucrative stripping, only to find herself trapped in a dangerous criminal underworld. The narrative is noted for its unique visual style and rhythmic editing that captures the frantic energy of social media. Taylour Paige and Riley Keough deliver high-energy performances that navigate the surreal and often terrifying events of the trip. It is a bold, modern piece of filmmaking that explores the intersections of digital culture and real-world exploitation.

’42’ (2013)

This biographical sports drama arrives on February 1, chronicling the life of Jackie Robinson and his history-making signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Chadwick Boseman stars as Robinson, capturing the athlete’s immense talent and the tremendous courage required to break Major League Baseball’s color barrier. The film also features Harrison Ford as Branch Rickey, the executive who championed Robinson’s career in the face of intense racial prejudice. The story emphasizes the discipline and grace Robinson displayed while navigating systemic racism and personal threats. It serves as an enduring tribute to a pivotal figure in American civil rights and sports history.

‘Malcolm X’ (1992)

Spike Lee’s monumental biographical epic becomes available on February 1. Starring Denzel Washington in an Academy Award-nominated performance, the film follows the life of the influential Black nationalist leader from his early days to his transformation in prison and his eventual assassination. The narrative spans multiple decades, detailing his involvement with the Nation of Islam and his later shift toward a more inclusive vision of human rights. It is widely considered a masterpiece of biographical filmmaking for its scale, historical accuracy, and powerful central performance. The film remains a vital exploration of race, religion, and political evolution in the United States.

‘King Solomon’s Mines’ (1950)

This adventure classic joins the Max catalog on February 1, starring Stewart Granger and Deborah Kerr. The plot follows an Englishwoman who hires a veteran guide to help find her husband, who disappeared while searching for a legendary diamond mine in Africa. The production was notable for being filmed on location in various African countries, providing a sense of scale and authenticity rare for the time. It won Academy Awards for its cinematography and editing, which captured the vast landscapes and wildlife of the continent. The film remains a cornerstone of the mid-century adventure genre, influencing decades of subsequent “treasure hunt” narratives.

‘The Shape of Water’ (2017)

Streaming on February 1, Guillermo del Toro’s Best Picture winner is a dark fantasy romance set during the Cold War. Sally Hawkins stars as a mute janitor who falls in love with a mysterious aquatic creature held captive in a high-security government laboratory. The film explores themes of isolation, empathy, and the definition of “monstrosity” through its lush visual design and fairy-tale atmosphere. It features standout supporting performances from Octavia Spencer, Richard Jenkins, and Michael Shannon. The story serves as a poetic defense of the marginalized and the transformative power of love across boundaries.

‘Marie Antoinette’ (2006)

Sofia Coppola’s stylized historical drama arrives on February 1, offering a modern perspective on the life of the young Queen of France. Starring Kirsten Dunst, the film focuses on the isolation and boredom Marie Antoinette experienced within the rigid social structures of Versailles. The production is famous for its use of a contemporary soundtrack and vibrant, candy-colored aesthetics that contrast with the 18th-century setting. It avoids traditional political analysis of the French Revolution in favor of an intimate character study about a teenager thrust into a position of overwhelming responsibility. The film won an Academy Award for its elaborate and influential costume design.

‘The Search’ (1948)

Joining the platform on February 1, this post-war drama stars Montgomery Clift in his film debut as an American soldier in occupied Germany. He befriends a young boy who has survived a concentration camp and is searching for his missing mother. The narrative follows their bond as the soldier attempts to help the child navigate the trauma of the war and find his family. Shot among the actual ruins of German cities, the film provides a stark and realistic look at the human cost of the conflict. It received critical acclaim for its humanitarian themes and the naturalistic performances of its lead actors.

‘The Notebook’ (2004)

This iconic romantic drama becomes available on February 1, based on the best-selling novel by Nicholas Sparks. The story follows the enduring love between Noah and Allie, who are separated by social class and the onset of World War II before reuniting years later. Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams share a celebrated chemistry that helped the film become a modern staple of the romance genre. The narrative is framed by an elderly man reading the story from a notebook to a fellow nursing home resident, adding a layer of poignant reflection to the youthful romance. It remains one of the most popular and referenced romantic films of the early 21st century.

‘Open Water’ (2004)

Arriving on February 1, this tense survival thriller is based on the true story of a couple left behind in shark-infested waters during a scuba diving trip. The film utilizes a minimalist approach, focusing entirely on the two protagonists as they drift in the ocean and face increasing physical and psychological exhaustion. Its low-budget, handheld camera style enhances the sense of realism and dread as the situation becomes more desperate. The movie serves as a chilling exploration of human vulnerability in the face of nature’s indifference. It remains a notable example of effective, suspense-driven independent filmmaking.

‘Life of Pi’ (2012)

This visually stunning adaptation of Yann Martel’s novel arrives on February 1, directed by Ang Lee. The story follows Pi Patel, a young man who survives a shipwreck only to be stranded on a lifeboat in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with a Bengal tiger. The film explores deep themes of spirituality, survival, and the power of storytelling through its innovative use of 3D and digital effects. It won four Academy Awards, including Best Director and Best Cinematography, for its breathtaking imagery and technical mastery. The narrative challenges viewers to consider the nature of truth and faith in the face of extraordinary circumstances.

‘Watch on the Rhine’ (1943)

Available on February 1, this wartime drama stars Bette Davis and Paul Lukas in an adaptation of Lillian Hellman’s play. The story centers on a German anti-Nazi underground leader who flees to his wife’s family home in Washington, D.C., only to find that the dangers of the European conflict have followed him. The film serves as a powerful call to action against fascism, emphasizing that no one is truly safe from global political unrest. Lukas won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of a man dedicated to a cause at great personal risk. It is an important historical artifact reflecting American sentiments during the height of World War II.

‘Key Largo’ (1948)

This classic film noir joins the service on February 1, featuring the legendary pairing of Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall. Set in a hotel in the Florida Keys during a hurricane, the plot follows a disillusioned war veteran who finds himself held captive by a group of gangsters led by Edward G. Robinson. The confined setting and the encroaching storm create a high-stakes atmosphere where moral characters are forced to take a stand against criminal corruption. Claire Trevor won an Academy Award for her role as the tragic companion to the mob boss. The film is celebrated for its sharp dialogue and atmospheric tension.

‘Wuthering Heights’ (1939)

Coming to Max on February 1, this definitive adaptation of Emily Brontë’s novel stars Laurence Olivier and Merle Oberon as the star-crossed lovers Heathcliff and Cathy. The story captures the intense, brooding atmosphere of the Yorkshire moors and the destructive nature of obsession and social class. Although it only adapts the first half of the book, it is widely regarded as a masterpiece of Romantic cinema due to its moody cinematography and powerful performances. The film won the New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Film and remains a touchstone for gothic romance on screen. It beautifully translates the novel’s dark emotional landscape into a visual medium.

‘One Way Passage’ (1932)

Arriving on February 1, this pre-Code romance features William Powell and Kay Francis as two people who fall in love on a ship traveling from Hong Kong to San Francisco. Both characters are hiding tragic secrets: he is a fugitive facing execution, and she is terminally ill. The film focuses on their attempt to find happiness in their limited remaining time, creating a bittersweet and emotionally resonant narrative. Its short runtime and brisk pacing are characteristic of early 1930s cinema, yet it manages to leave a lasting impact through its poignant themes. The movie won the Academy Award for Best Story for its elegant and tragic premise.

‘Hop’ (2011)

This family-friendly blend of live-action and animation joins the platform on February 1. The story follows E.B., the teenage son of the Easter Bunny, who decides to run away to Hollywood to pursue his dream of becoming a drummer instead of taking over the family business. He eventually teams up with an out-of-work human played by James Marsden, and together they must save Easter from a coup by a power-hungry chick. The film features the voice of Russell Brand as E.B. and offers a colorful, comedic take on holiday mythology. It is an upbeat selection for younger audiences and fans of whimsical animation.

‘Masterminds’ (2016)

Available on February 1, this action-comedy is based on the true story of the 1997 Loomis Fargo robbery in North Carolina. Zach Galifianakis stars as a naive armored truck driver who is convinced by a co-worker to steal $17 million, resulting in one of the largest heists in American history. The film features a comedic ensemble including Kristen Wiig, Owen Wilson, and Jason Sudeikis, emphasizing the absurdity and incompetence of the real-life criminals. It explores themes of greed and betrayal through a lens of slapstick humor and exaggerated characterizations. The production offers a high-energy, fictionalized account of a bizarre true crime event.

‘They Were Expendable’ (1945)

Joining the library on February 1, this John Ford-directed war film stars Robert Montgomery and John Wayne. The narrative focuses on a squadron of Motor Torpedo Boats during the early days of the American involvement in the Pacific Theater of World War II. Unlike many contemporary propaganda films, it takes a somber and realistic approach to the logistical failures and human sacrifices of the war’s initial stages. The film is noted for its authentic depiction of naval warfare and its focus on the duty and resilience of soldiers facing inevitable defeat. It remains one of the most respected military dramas produced during the mid-1940s.

‘When Strangers Marry’ (1944)

Arriving on February 1, this psychological thriller is a notable example of a “B-movie” that achieved critical respect for its atmospheric direction by William Castle. The plot follows a young woman who travels to New York to meet her new husband, only to suspect that he might be a murderer. As she navigates an unfamiliar city, her paranoia grows, fueled by mysterious encounters and a lack of information about her spouse’s past. The film is recognized for its effective use of suspense and noir elements on a limited budget. It features early performances from Robert Mitchum and Kim Hunter, adding to its historical interest for cinephiles.

‘Insidious: Chapter 3’ (2015)

Streaming on February 1, this horror prequel explores the origins of psychic Elise Rainier’s encounters with the supernatural. Set before the events of the first two films, the story follows Elise as she reluctantly agrees to help a teenage girl who has been targeted by a dangerous entity after trying to contact her deceased mother. The film delves into the lore of “The Further,” a dark metaphysical realm inhabited by malevolent spirits. It emphasizes atmosphere and jump scares, maintaining the franchise’s reputation for effective modern horror. Lin Shaye returns to her signature role, providing the emotional core of the terrifying narrative.

‘Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo’ (1945)

Available on February 1, this historical war drama depicts the true story of the Doolittle Raid, the first American air strike on Japan following Pearl Harbor. Van Johnson and Spencer Tracy star in this account of the rigorous training and high-risk execution of the mission. The film is praised for its technical accuracy and the use of actual wartime footage to enhance the realism of the flight sequences. It focuses on the bravery of the pilots and the strategic significance of the raid in boosting American morale. The production won an Academy Award for its impressive special effects, which were groundbreaking for the time.

‘The Life of Emile Zola’ (1937)

Joining the service on February 1, this acclaimed biopic stars Paul Muni as the famous French novelist and activist. The film primarily focuses on Zola’s involvement in the Dreyfus Affair, where he risked his career and freedom to expose a government cover-up of a wrongful conviction. His famous “J’accuse” open letter serves as a central point of the narrative, highlighting the importance of truth and justice in the face of institutional corruption. The film won the Academy Award for Best Picture and is celebrated for its powerful social message. It remains a definitive portrayal of the writer’s life and his impact on European society.

‘Captains Courageous’ (1937)

Arriving on February 1, this adventure film is based on the novel by Rudyard Kipling and stars Spencer Tracy and Freddie Bartholomew. The story follows a spoiled wealthy boy who falls overboard from a steamship and is rescued by a group of Portuguese fishermen. Over the course of the voyage, he learns the value of hard work and humility under the guidance of a kind-hearted fisherman played by Tracy. The film is a classic “coming-of-age” tale that emphasizes character growth and the bonds formed between people of different social backgrounds. Tracy’s performance earned him the first of his two consecutive Academy Awards for Best Actor.

‘Get Him to the Greek’ (2010)

Streaming on February 1, this spin-off of ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ features Jonah Hill and Russell Brand. The plot follows a low-level record company employee tasked with escorting a wild, unpredictable British rock star to a career-reviving concert at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. The journey becomes a chaotic series of mishaps as the assistant struggles to keep the musician on schedule while navigating his debaucherous lifestyle. The film blends slapstick comedy with moments of genuine character insight regarding the pressures of fame and the loneliness of the spotlight. It is a high-energy comedy with a soundtrack of original rock music.

‘Jezebel’ (1938)

Available starting February 1, this Southern melodrama stars Bette Davis in one of her most iconic roles. Set in 1850s New Orleans, the story follows a headstrong young woman whose scandalous behavior and refusal to conform to social norms cost her the man she loves. She later seeks redemption by risking her life to nurse him during a deadly yellow fever outbreak. The film is often compared to ‘Gone with the Wind’ but is noted for its sharper focus on the personal failings and eventual growth of its protagonist. Davis won her second Academy Award for Best Actress for her complex and fiery performance.

‘Around the World in 80 Days’ (1956)

Joining the platform on February 1, this epic adventure film is based on the classic novel by Jules Verne. David Niven stars as Phileas Fogg, a Victorian gentleman who bets that he can circumnavigate the globe in just eighty days using newly developed transportation. The production is famous for its massive scale, featuring location filming in multiple countries and a record-breaking number of celebrity cameos. It won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, for its grand spectacle and lighthearted tone. The film remains a quintessential example of the “road movie” on an international scale.

‘MacGruber’ (2010)

This cult action-comedy arrives on February 1, based on the popular ‘Saturday Night Live’ sketch that parodies ‘MacGyver’. Will Forte stars as the titular character, a bumbling former special operations agent who is called back into action to stop a nuclear threat. The film leans heavily into absurdist humor, 1980s action tropes, and over-the-top violence. Alongside Forte, the cast includes Kristen Wiig and Val Kilmer, who plays the villainous Dieter Von Cunth. Despite a modest initial theatrical run, the film has gained a dedicated following for its unique brand of irreverent and eccentric comedy.

‘Mister Roberts’ (1955)

Available on February 1, this classic comedy-drama stars Henry Fonda as a cargo ship officer during World War II who is desperate for combat duty. He finds himself at odds with the ship’s tyrannical captain, played by James Cagney, who refuses to grant him a transfer. The story highlights the monotony and frustration of those serving in non-combat roles, while emphasizing the camaraderie and small acts of rebellion among the crew. Jack Lemmon won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as the opportunistic Ensign Pulver. The film is a beloved adaptation of the successful Broadway play of the same name.

‘Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri’ (2017)

Streaming on February 1, this acclaimed dark comedy-drama stars Frances McDormand as a grieving mother who challenges the local police for their failure to solve her daughter’s murder. She rents three large billboards to publicize her frustration, sparking a volatile conflict within the small community. The film features powerful supporting performances from Woody Harrelson and Sam Rockwell, both of whom portray complex characters navigating their own flaws and prejudices. It explores themes of anger, forgiveness, and the search for justice in a polarized world. The production won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Actress for McDormand and Best Supporting Actor for Rockwell.

‘My Cousin Rachel’ (2017)

This mystery-drama arrives on February 1, based on the classic novel by Daphne du Maurier. Sam Claflin stars as a young Englishman who suspects his mysterious cousin Rachel, played by Rachel Weisz, of murdering his guardian for his estate. As he attempts to uncover the truth, he finds himself falling under her enigmatic spell, leading to a psychological battle of trust and obsession. The film maintains an ambiguous tone, leaving the audience to decide whether Rachel is a manipulative villain or a misunderstood victim of circumstance. It is an atmospheric period piece that emphasizes the tension between suspicion and desire.

‘This Modern Age’ (1931)

Available on February 1, this pre-Code drama features Joan Crawford as a young woman living in Paris with her sophisticated but morally loose mother. The narrative explores the generational conflict between the mother’s bohemian lifestyle and the daughter’s desire for a more traditional, stable romance with an American socialite. It provides a look at the social anxieties of the early 1930s regarding changing family structures and the influence of European culture on American youth. The film is an early showcase for Crawford’s transition into more mature, dramatic roles. It offers viewers a window into the evolving social codes of the Great Depression era.

‘Now, Voyager’ (1942)

Coming to Max on February 1, this celebrated melodrama stars Bette Davis as an repressed woman who undergoes a transformation after seeking psychiatric help. The story follows her journey from a sheltered, bullied daughter to a confident, independent woman who finds love during a cruise. The film is famous for its iconic final scene and the theme of personal liberation through emotional resilience. Paul Henreid stars as the man she loves, and their chemistry contributed to the film’s enduring status as a romantic classic. It is a hallmark of the “woman’s picture” genre that flourished in Hollywood during the 1940s.

‘Robin Hood’ (2010)

Joining the service on February 1, Ridley Scott’s take on the legendary outlaw stars Russell Crowe in the titular role. This version serves as an origin story, depicting Robin as a common archer in King Richard’s army who returns to an England plagued by corruption and impending French invasion. The film emphasizes historical realism over the more whimsical elements of previous adaptations, focusing on the political tensions and the birth of the Magna Carta. Cate Blanchett portrays a more active and capable Marion, while the supporting cast includes Mark Strong and Oscar Isaac. The production features the grand scale and gritty action choreography characteristic of Scott’s historical epics.

‘National Velvet’ (1945)

Arriving on February 1, this classic family film stars a young Elizabeth Taylor as Velvet Brown, a girl who wins a horse in a lottery and dreams of racing it in the Grand National. She is aided by a drifter played by Mickey Rooney, who helps her train the spirited animal for the prestigious steeplechase. The film is a heartwarming tale of ambition and the bond between a girl and her horse, set against the backdrop of rural England. It was a massive commercial success and launched Taylor into major stardom. The movie won two Academy Awards and remains a staple of wholesome cinematic storytelling.

‘Love & Basketball’ (2000)

Streaming on February 1, this acclaimed sports drama follows the intertwined lives of two childhood friends who share a passion for basketball. Over several decades, the narrative tracks their evolving relationship as they both pursue professional careers in the sport while navigating personal setbacks and romantic tensions. Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps deliver central performances that ground the film in emotional authenticity and competitive energy. The story is noted for its balanced focus on the challenges faced by both male and female athletes. It has become a beloved cult classic for its realistic portrayal of love, ambition, and the sacrifice required for professional success.

‘The Lost Husband’ (2020)

Available starting February 1, this romantic drama follows a woman who moves to her aunt’s farm in central Texas after the sudden death of her husband. While attempting to rebuild her life and raise her two children, she meets a rugged farm manager played by Josh Duhamel. The film explores themes of healing, the importance of family connections, and finding the courage to love again after a significant loss. It provides a peaceful, pastoral setting for its story of emotional recovery and self-discovery. The narrative is based on the novel by Katherine Center and offers a gentle, uplifting viewing experience.

‘Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’ (1932)

This iconic horror adaptation arrives on February 1, featuring Fredric March in his Academy Award-winning dual role. The story follows a well-respected doctor who creates a potion that releases his repressed, primitive alter ego, leading to a series of violent and tragic events. The film is celebrated for its groundbreaking makeup effects and the innovative use of subjective camera angles to depict the transformations. As a pre-Code production, it is notably darker and more intense than many subsequent versions of the Robert Louis Stevenson tale. It remains a definitive example of early cinematic horror and psychological exploration.

‘Lady Be Good’ (1941)

Joining the Max lineup on February 1, this musical comedy stars Eleanor Powell, Robert Young, and Ann Sothern. The plot revolves around a married songwriting duo who divorce and then struggle to work together despite their lingering affection and professional success. The film is primarily remembered for its spectacular musical numbers and Eleanor Powell’s extraordinary tap-dancing sequences. It won the Academy Award for Best Original Song for “The Last Time I Saw Paris,” which became a popular standard of the era. The movie offers a blend of lighthearted romance and top-tier musical performance typical of early 1940s MGM productions.

‘My Blind Brother’ (2016)

Streaming on February 1, this independent comedy-drama stars Adam Scott and Nick Kroll as competitive brothers. One is a high-achieving, blind athlete who is a local hero, while the other is his resentful assistant who feels overshadowed by his brother’s fame. Tensions peak when they both fall in love with the same woman, played by Jenny Slate, leading to a series of awkward and revealing confrontations. The film subverts typical inspirational tropes associated with disabilities by focusing on the flawed, petty, and realistic aspects of the characters’ personalities. It is a sharp, humorous look at sibling rivalry and the search for individual identity.

‘Mrs. Miniver’ (1942)

Arriving on February 1, this influential wartime drama depicts the life of a middle-class English family during the early years of World War II. Greer Garson stars in the title role, portraying a woman who maintains her dignity and courage as the conflict reaches her suburban community. The film features iconic scenes of the Dunkirk evacuation and the Blitz, serving as a powerful tribute to the resilience of the British home front. It was a major critical and commercial success, winning six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actress. Winston Churchill famously credited the film with doing more for the war effort than a flotilla of destroyers.

‘Westbound’ (1958)

Available on February 1, this Western stars Randolph Scott as a Union officer during the American Civil War. His mission is to ensure the safe passage of gold shipments from California to the East to fund the Northern war effort. Along the way, he must battle Southern sympathizers and outlaws who are determined to intercept the shipments and sabotage the Union’s financial stability. The film is part of the successful collaboration between Scott and director Budd Boetticher, known for their lean, efficient, and morally complex Westerns. It offers classic frontier action with a focus on duty, honor, and the challenges of leadership.

‘Ferdinand’ (2017)

This animated family feature arrives on February 1, based on the classic children’s book ‘The Story of Ferdinand’. John Cena voices the titular character, a giant bull with a gentle heart who prefers smelling flowers to fighting in the bullring. After being mistakenly identified as a fierce beast and taken to a training camp in Spain, Ferdinand must recruit a group of misfit animals to help him return home to his family. The film explores themes of non-violence, empathy, and staying true to one’s nature regardless of societal expectations. It was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature for its charm and positive message.

‘Silver River’ (1948)

Joining the service on February 1, this Western stars Errol Flynn as a cashiered Union officer who heads west to seek his fortune in the silver mines. He eventually builds a mining empire through ruthless business practices, only to realize that his success has left him isolated and despised. The story follows his moral decline and eventual search for redemption as he faces the consequences of his ambition. Ann Sheridan stars as the woman who challenges his ethics and provides a path toward a better life. The film is a sprawling epic that blends the Western genre with themes of corporate greed and personal integrity.

‘Mildred Pierce’ (1945)

Streaming on February 1, this classic film noir stars Joan Crawford in her Academy Award-winning role as a hardworking mother who builds a successful business to provide for her ungrateful daughter. The narrative is framed by a murder investigation, using flashbacks to detail the complex and toxic relationship between the two women. It is a definitive example of the “woman’s melodrama” fused with the dark, cynical tropes of noir. The film deals with themes of class social climbing, maternal sacrifice, and betrayal. It remains one of the most celebrated films of the 1940s and a high point in Crawford’s career.

‘Strike Up the Band’ (1940)

Available on February 1, this musical stars Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland in their second “backyard musical” collaboration. The plot follows a group of high school students who form a band and compete in a national radio contest hosted by Paul Whiteman. The film is a showcase for the immense talent and energy of its young leads, featuring several elaborate musical numbers and comedic vignettes. It emphasizes themes of youthful ambition and the importance of supporting one’s community. The production was a major success and solidified the Rooney-Garland pairing as one of the most popular in Hollywood history.

‘Just Mercy’ (2019)

Arriving on February 1, this biographical legal drama stars Michael B. Jordan as Bryan Stevenson, a young defense attorney who founds the Equal Justice Initiative. The story focuses on his fight to overturn the wrongful conviction of Walter McMillian, played by Jamie Foxx, a man sentenced to death for a murder he did not commit. The film provides a harrowing and factual look at the flaws within the American legal system, particularly regarding racial bias and systemic injustice. It is based on Stevenson’s own memoir and serves as a powerful testament to the importance of advocacy and judicial reform. The production was praised for its powerful performances and emotional resonance.

‘Boys Go to Jupiter’ (2025)

This original animated premiere arrives on February 6, marking a unique addition to the Max lineup for 2026. Directed by Julian Glander, the film follows Billy 5000, a teenage gig worker in suburban Florida who is determined to save five thousand dollars to gain financial independence. His mundane life is interrupted when he discovers a gelatinous alien creature named Donut, who is being hunted by a powerful juice company executive. The film features a “who’s who” of alternative comedy voices, including Elsie Fisher, Julio Torres, and Janeane Garofalo. It utilizes a surreal, gummy 3D aesthetic and lo-fi musical numbers to provide a deadpan commentary on the modern “hustle culture.”

‘The Pope’s Exorcist’ (2023)

Available starting February 12, this supernatural horror film stars Russell Crowe as Father Gabriele Amorth, the real-life chief exorcist of the Vatican. The plot follows Amorth as he investigates a terrifying possession of a young boy at an ancient abbey in Spain. As he performs the exorcism, he uncovers a centuries-old conspiracy that the Vatican has desperately tried to keep hidden. The film blends traditional horror tropes with elements of a religious thriller, emphasizing the battle between faith and ancient malevolence. Crowe’s performance provides a grounded, charismatic center to the film’s increasingly intense and occult-driven narrative.

‘Dead of Winter’ (2025)

This psychological thriller makes its streaming debut on February 20, starring Emma Thompson as Barb, a grieving widow traveling through a blizzard in northern Minnesota. While attempting to fulfill her husband’s final request to scatter his ashes, she stumbles upon a remote cabin where a young woman is being held hostage by a desperate couple. Barb must utilize her resourcefulness and grit to survive the sub-zero conditions and rescue the girl from her captors, played by Judy Greer and Marc Menchaca. The film is noted for its atmospheric tension and its portrayal of an unlikely hero facing extraordinary danger. It offers a visceral survival story set against a stark, frozen landscape.

‘Paddington 2’ (2017)

Rounding out the month on February 27, this highly acclaimed family sequel finds the beloved bear settled with the Brown family in London. Paddington takes on a variety of odd jobs to buy a unique pop-up book for his Aunt Lucy’s 100th birthday, only for the book to be stolen by a washed-up actor played by Hugh Grant. The film follows Paddington’s journey to clear his name after being wrongfully imprisoned for the theft. It is widely regarded as one of the best sequels of all time for its heart, humor, and message of kindness. The production features a perfect blend of live-action and CGI, creating a world that is both whimsical and deeply touching.

Share which of these upcoming titles you are most excited to watch in the comments.