4 Must-Watch Murder Mystery TV Shows on HBO Max, Ranked by IMDb
While HBO Max may not feature a large selection of murder mystery shows, the titles it does have are undeniably outstanding.
When HBO ventures into the mystery genre, it often brings A-list movie stars to elevate the productions.
The Watch With Us team has taken a fresh look at this genre, culminating in a list of four exceptional murder mystery TV shows available on HBO Max, ranked by their IMDb scores.
The top entry is a series you’re likely familiar with if you’re an HBO or HBO Max subscriber.
4. ‘The Undoing’ (2020)
Featuring the talents of Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant, The Undoing is a psychological thriller that debuted on HBO Max just over five years ago. The narrative follows Grace (Kidman) and Johnathan Fraser (Grant), a couple who seem perfectly happy on the surface but harbor dark secrets. Jonathan is involved in an affair with the mysterious Elena Alves (Matilda De Angelis), whom Grace frequently encounters.
When Elena is discovered dead, Jonathan becomes a top suspect. Grace finds herself questioning her husband’s innocence as she strives to uncover the truth about their relationship.
The Undoing is available for streaming on HBO Max.
3. ‘Perry Mason’ (2020 – 2023)
The classic Perry Mason series focused primarily on murder cases solved through intense courtroom drama. HBO’s reboot explores the character’s origins, showcasing a younger Perry Mason, portrayed by Matthew Rhys.
In this new adaptation, set in the 1930s, Perry is a private investigator entangled in a child kidnapping that goes awry. John Lithgow co-stars as Perry’s employer, Elias Birchard “E.B.” Jonathan, a lawyer who often seeks Perry’s expertise. As the story unfolds, Perry embraces the law and becomes a lawyer to solve the case.
Perry Mason is available on HBO Max.
2. ‘Mare of Easttown’ (2021)
Mare of Easttown was intended to be a miniseries, but it left a lasting impact, driven by Kate Winslet‘s Emmy-winning portrayal of Marianne “Mare” Sheehan. Early in the series, Mare faces personal turmoil as her ex-husband, Frank Sheehan (David Denman), moves on with another partner, while she grapples with the aftermath of their son’s suicide.
As Mare seeks to solve the case of a missing girl, Katie Bailey (Caitlin Houlahan), tragedy strikes again with the murder of a young woman, Erin McMenamin (Cailee Spaeny). Mare begrudgingly accepts assistance from Detective Colin Zabel (Evan Peters) as both cases unfold, leading to shocking revelations.
Mare of Easttown is streaming on HBO Max.
HBO has built a legacy known for producing top-tier television for decades. Although HBO Max has added some dilution to the brand, its reputation continues to hold strong. While series like And Just Like That have gained notoriety as hate-watches, numerous excellent HBO Max series have already emerged this year.
1. ‘True Detective’ (2014 – Present)
To date, four seasons of True Detective have been produced, each featuring a distinct cast of A-list actors. The inaugural season, starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, is widely regarded as one of HBO’s finest creations. This season’s narrative employs non-linear storytelling across two timeframes. In the past, detectives Rustin “Rust” Cohle (McConaughey) and Martin “Marty” Hart (Harrelson) chase a horrific murder case that shapes their careers.
In the present day, Rust and Marty have drifted apart and are forced to confront their shared past when a new investigation echoes the one they believed was resolved long ago. Both men are harboring significant secrets, driving their determination to uncover the truth behind these murders, regardless of the potential cost.
True Detective is streaming on HBO Max.
