The Best Movies to Watch on HBO Max in January 2026

The start of 2026 brings a diverse collection of cinematic classics and new releases to the HBO Max streaming library. Subscribers can look forward to a mix of high-octane action, critically acclaimed dramas, and influential comedies arriving throughout the month. This selection includes everything from beloved parodies to the latest expansions of popular fantasy universes. Whether viewers are looking for award-winning modern films or vintage staples, the January lineup offers a variety of genres to explore.

‘Fargo’ (1996)

‘Fargo’ arrives on the platform on January 1, 2026, bringing the Coen brothers’ dark comedy thriller to subscribers. The story follows a desperate car salesman who hires two criminals to kidnap his wife to extort a ransom from his wealthy father-in-law. Marge Gunderson, a pregnant police chief, investigates the subsequent trail of homicides across the frozen landscape of Minnesota. The film is noted for its distinctive regional accents and its blend of mundane dialogue with sudden violence. It remains a landmark of independent cinema and a winner of multiple Academy Awards.

‘John Wick’ (2014)

The first installment of the popular action franchise becomes available on January 1, 2026. After the death of his wife, retired hitman John Wick is drawn back into the criminal underworld when a mobster’s son steals his car and kills his puppy. This catalyst triggers a relentless vendetta as Wick utilizes his legendary combat skills to dismantle a sprawling crime syndicate. The movie introduced audiences to the intricate world of the Continental Hotel and its strict assassin codes. It revitalized the action genre with its “gun-fu” choreography and stylized visual direction.

‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ (2017)

Continuing the saga, ‘John Wick: Chapter 2′ joins the streaming service on January 1, 2026. Bound by an unbreakable blood oath to an Italian crime lord, John Wick travels to Rome to take down an international assassins’ guild. The protagonist soon finds himself the target of a massive bounty, forcing him to fight his way through the world’s most dangerous killers. This sequel expands the lore of the High Table and the global network of professional hitmen. The film features elaborate set pieces and high-stakes combat that build upon the foundations of the original.

‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum’ (2019)

‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum’ completes the trilogy’s arrival on the service on January 1, 2026. Following the events of the second film, John Wick is declared “excommunicado” with a $14 million price tag on his head. He must navigate the streets of New York and the deserts of Casablanca while being pursued by every assassin in the world. The narrative explores the consequences of defying the High Table and the lengths to which Wick will go to survive. This entry is praised for its inventive stunt work and the introduction of new characters played by Halle Berry and Mark Dacascos.

‘Ex Machina’ (2015)

The psychological sci-fi thriller ‘Ex Machina’ makes its debut on HBO Max on January 1, 2026. A young programmer is invited to the private estate of a reclusive CEO to participate in a groundbreaking experiment involving artificial intelligence. He is tasked with performing a Turing test on Ava, a highly advanced humanoid robot with sophisticated consciousness. As the experiment progresses, the boundaries between human and machine begin to blur, leading to a tense battle of wits. The film explores themes of morality, technology, and what it truly means to be alive.

‘Moonlight’ (2016)

The Academy Award winner for Best Picture, ‘Moonlight’, joins the January 1, 2026, release schedule. This coming-of-age drama follows the life of Chiron through three defining chapters: childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Growing up in a rough Miami neighborhood, the protagonist struggles with his identity and sexuality while navigating a difficult home life. The film uses a poetic visual style to convey the emotional internal world of its lead character. It is recognized for its powerful performances and its sensitive exploration of human connection and vulnerability.

‘Spaceballs’ (1987)

The satirical space adventure ‘Spaceballs’ will be available for streaming starting January 1, 2026. Directed by Mel Brooks, the film parodies the ‘Star Wars’ franchise and other popular science fiction properties. The plot follows the heroic Lone Starr and his companion Barf as they attempt to rescue a princess from the nefarious Dark Helmet. Along the way, they encounter various eccentric characters while navigating a universe filled with slapstick humor and meta-commentary. It has remained a cult classic for decades due to its irreverent take on cinematic tropes.

‘Blazing Saddles’ (1974)

Another Mel Brooks masterpiece, ‘Blazing Saddles’, arrives on the service on January 1, 2026. This satirical Western focuses on a corrupt politician who appoints a Black sheriff to a prejudiced town in hopes of destroying it. Instead, Sheriff Bart becomes a formidable defender of the community, forming an unlikely alliance with a washed-up gunslinger known as the Waco Kid. The movie subverts the traditional Western genre while addressing social issues through biting humor and absurdity. It is frequently cited as one of the greatest American comedies ever produced.

‘Twilight’ (2008)

The first film in the global phenomenon ‘Twilight’ saga becomes available on January 1, 2026. Bella Swan moves to the rainy town of Forks, Washington, where she becomes infatuated with Edward Cullen, a mysterious classmate. She soon discovers that Edward is a vampire who has lived for over a century, leading to a dangerous and intense romance. The story explores the complexities of their relationship and the threats posed by rival vampire covens. This adaptation of Stephenie Meyer’s novel launched a massive franchise and a dedicated worldwide fanbase.

‘The Hitman’s Bodyguard’ (2017)

‘The Hitman’s Bodyguard’ joins the HBO Max catalog on January 1, 2026. The film follows a top-rated protection agent who is hired to guard his mortal enemy, a notorious international hitman. The duo must travel from London to The Hague so the hitman can testify against a ruthless Eastern European dictator. Despite their mutual hatred, they must work together to survive constant attacks from the dictator’s henchmen. The movie combines high-energy action sequences with comedic banter between leads Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackson.

’65’ (2023)

The science fiction survival film ’65’ is scheduled to premiere on the platform on January 8, 2026. After a catastrophic crash on an uncharted planet, pilot Mills discovers that he is actually stranded on Earth 65 million years in the past. To survive, he and the only other survivor, a young girl named Koa, must trek across a dangerous prehistoric landscape. They face constant threats from apex predators, including dinosaurs, while searching for a way home. The film stars Adam Driver and offers a unique blend of futuristic technology and ancient survival.

‘The Smashing Machine’ (2025)

Dwayne Johnson stars in this biographical drama about the life of mixed martial arts champion Mark Kerr. The film explores Kerr’s rise to fame in the early days of the UFC and his personal struggles with addiction and the physical toll of the sport. Directed by Benny Safdie, it offers a grounded and gritty look at the combat sports world. It debuts on January 23, 2026.

‘Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man!’ (2026)

This special documentary celebrating the legendary comedian debuts on January 22, 2026. It provides an in-depth look at the life and career of Mel Brooks as he reaches a significant milestone age. The production features archival footage, personal interviews, and tributes from across the entertainment industry. It highlights his contributions to film, television, and Broadway as a writer, director, and performer. The special serves as a comprehensive retrospective for fans of his long-standing comedic legacy.

‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ (2022)

The Gen Z slasher ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ becomes available to stream on January 1, 2026. A group of wealthy young adults hosts a party at a remote family mansion during a hurricane, where they decide to play a murder-mystery game. The night takes a dark turn when one of the participants is found dead for real, leading to a chaotic search for the killer. Friendships disintegrate as the characters turn on each other in a frenzy of paranoia and social commentary. The film is known for its sharp dialogue and its satirical take on modern interpersonal dynamics.

‘Constantine’ (2005)

The supernatural thriller ‘Constantine’ returns to the streaming lineup on January 1, 2026. Based on the DC Comics character, the story follows John Constantine, a cynical exorcist with the ability to perceive and communicate with half-angels and half-demons. He assists a police detective in investigating the mysterious death of her sister, leading them into a conspiracy involving the forces of both Heaven and Hell. The film explores themes of faith, redemption, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. Keanu Reeves stars as the titular character in this visually atmospheric adaptation.

Share your favorite movies arriving on HBO Max this month in the comments.