This month, Max is rolling out an impressive lineup of movies and TV series that are definitely worth checking out. The following selection highlights some of the most compelling titles available, making it easier to decide what to watch.

Here are the top three picks to look forward to this month: HBO’s gripping medical drama The Pitt, which portrays the intense lives of healthcare workers; Harley Quinn Season 5, an award-winning animated series; and A Different Man, a darkly humorous exploration of identity and transformation.

The Pitt

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Set in the fast-paced environment of Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Hospital, The Pitt dives into the lives of medical professionals attempting to balance saving lives with their own mental stability. Created by ER‘s R. Scott Gemmill, this intense series unfolds in real time, with each of its 15 episodes capturing one hour of a shift in the emergency room. Starring Noah Wyle as Dr. Michael “Robby” Robinavitch, the series delves deep into the complexities of personal and professional challenges faced by its characters.

Date of release: January 9.

A Different Man (2024)

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If dark comedies laced with biting irony and social critique are your jam, don’t miss A Different Man. The film features Sebastian Stan as Edward, a struggling actor with a significant facial deformity. After undergoing a life-changing surgery that makes him conventionally attractive, Edward discovers that external beauty hides deeper truths regarding his character. Following the path typical of A24 releases, A Different Man has garnered significant acclaim from critics.

Date of release: January 17.

Harley Quinn, Season 5

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In the fifth season of the irreverent animated series Harley Quinn, voiced by Kaley Cuoco, Harley and Poison Ivy, voiced by Lake Bell, venture to Metropolis. Intrigued by the unfolding chaos in Superman’s territory, they soon cross paths with familiar faces like Lex Luthor and Brainiac. The show, with an impressive 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, delivers a fresh and humorous twist on the DC Universe.

Date of release: January 16.

The Leopard Man (1943)

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Despite its misleading title, The Leopard Man diverges from the typical monster movie; instead, it offers a stylistic exploration of misogyny and violence. Produced by Val Lewton, known for crafting atmospheric horror, this film is considered a pioneering piece in the serial killer genre. Released in 1943, it stands out for its progressive themes, making it an enduring classic.

Date of release: January 1.

The Front Room

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Marking the directorial debut of half-brothers Max and Sam Eggers, The Front Room is a blend of surrealism and domestic horror. The script revolves around the toxic relationship of a nightmare mother-in-law who disrupts the lives of her son and daughter-in-law. While the film deals with serious themes, it is interspersed with dark humor, making for an engaging viewing experience.

Date of release: January 3.

Sons of Ecstasy

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This gripping documentary investigates the intense rivalry between Shaun Attwood, an English stockbroker, and Gerard Gravano, offspring of reputed mobster Sammy the Bull Gravano. Set against the backdrop of Arizona’s ecstasy boom, their conflict unfolds through the lens of the desert rave scene. This subject matter promises an exploration into the complexities of power dynamics and the drug trade.

Date of release: January 9.

An Update on our Family

Delving into the world of “family YouTubers,” this three-part documentary scrutinizes the questionable actions of the Stauffer family. They built a seemingly perfect family image while adopting an infant from China with severe health issues, only for the child to later vanish from their content. This exposé raises critical questions surrounding authenticity and exploitation in the age of social media.

Date of release: January 15.

C.B. Strike: The Ink Black Heart

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In this four-part British series adapted from J.K. Rowling’s novels, presented under a pseudonym, C.B. Strike: The Ink Black Heart follows detectives Cormoran Strike and Robin Ellacott. Hired to uncover the truth behind a murder linked to a cult cartoon creator and a faceless internet troll, this narrative weaves a tangled web of deception, revealing the darker corners of online interactions.

Date of release: January 23.

Look Into My Eyes

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Challenging the conventional view of psychics as frauds, Look Into My Eyes explores the intricate dynamics between psychics and their clients. Director Lana Wilson presents a thought-provoking look at their interactions, suggesting that, rather than mere exploitation, there exist elements of healing and connection amidst the skepticism. This nuanced documentary provides an engaging perspective on the subject.

Date of release: January 10.