3 underrated TV shows on HBO Max to catch this weekend (April 24-26)

      This weekend's watchlist features two psychological thrillers that will challenge your mind in entirely different ways, along with an animated series that is unexpectedly impressive.

      Whether you're in the mood for small-town unease, generational trauma enveloped in a Southern Gothic setting, or a conspiracy involving Big Pharma presented through some of the most unique animation currently on television, there’s something for everyone. All three options are available on HBO Max, are significantly underrated, and at least one of them will linger with you long after it ends.

      Additionally, we have recommendations for the best new movies to stream, the top films on Netflix, Hulu, as well as the best free movies and the finest offerings on Amazon Prime Video.

      **Sharp Objects (2018)**

      **HBO**

      Adapted from Gillian Flynn's debut novel, this eight-episode series maintains an unrelenting psychological tension. Amy Adams portrays a troubled journalist who returns to her stifling hometown to report on the murders of two young girls, only to find herself spiraling along with the investigation.

      What sets *Sharp Objects* apart is that it’s less a murder mystery and more an exploration of inherited trauma, toxic motherhood, and the harm that small towns inflict on their residents. Patricia Clarkson delivers a quietly menacing performance as Adora. The finale hits hard—make sure to stay through the closing credits of the last episode!

      You can watch *Sharp Objects* on HBO Max.

      **The Outsider (2020)**

      **HBO**

      At first glance, *The Outsider* appears to be a crime drama, but it has a much stranger narrative. In a small Georgia town, a young boy is found dead, and all evidence points to one man. Yet, that same man possesses a solid alibi, creating a central mystery that drives the entire series.

      Ralph Anderson, played by Ben Mendelsohn, is a compelling detective who struggles to reconcile what he is witnessing. However, it is Cynthia Erivo as investigator Holly Gibney who truly shines and changes the course of the series when she joins around episode three. Be aware that the pacing is intentional and the conclusion may be polarizing. If you appreciate atmospheric slow burns with stellar performances, this one is worth watching.

      You can watch *The Outsider* on HBO Max.

      **Common Side Effects (2025)**

      **Adult Swim**

      This animated TV series has gone under the radar for many, but I strongly recommend checking it out. Two ex-high school friends stumble upon a mushroom that has the ability to cure every known ailment, which leads them to be pursued by Big Pharma, the DEA, and various global corporations intent on silencing them.

      While the premise may sound ridiculous—and it somewhat is—the show approaches its conspiracy thriller concept with cleverness and surprising emotional complexity. Co-created by the team behind *Scavengers Reign* and produced by Greg Daniels of *The Office*, it boasts a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The animation style is unique and may take an episode to adjust to, but once you do, you won’t want to stop watching.

      You can watch *Common Side Effects* on HBO Max.