Anne Hathaway Pop Star & Dempsey Slasher HBO Max Releases This Week

Get ready to settle in, because the HBO Max streaming service is gearing up for an exciting run, delivering a potent mix of psychological drama, chilling slasher horror, and heartfelt comedy. From August 17 to August 23, 2026, viewers can dive into a lineup that promises both emotional complexity and pure adrenaline.

One of the week’s major draws is the critically acclaimed film Mother Mary, directed by David Lowery. This psychological drama explores the complicated reunion between a famous pop star and her estranged friend and ex-costume designer. The film forces the characters to confront long-held emotional wounds, making for a compelling look at facing one’s past. Starring Anne Hathaway and Michaela Coel in key roles, Mother Mary garnered mixed reviews but delivered an unforgettable narrative journey.

Adding a dose of pure mayhem to the schedule is the slasher film Thanksgiving, directed by Eli Roth. Set in a small Massachusetts town, this movie tracks a mysterious masked killer who terrorizes the community around the holiday season and the aftermath of a previous riot. With intense twists and turns that keep the audience guessing, the revenge killings unfold with brutal intensity. The film performed well at the box office, grossing $46.6 million worldwide on a modest $15 million budget, and development is already underway for a sequel.

For fans of heartwarming slice-of-life comedy, there is an essential stop on the schedule: Season 5 of Abbott Elementary. Continuing the chaotic yet endearing lives of teachers at a Philadelphia public school, this season delivers the familiar brand of observational humor and unexpected incidents that make the staff truly shine. The series has already captivated audiences, and Season 5 brings back the beloved cast, including Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, and Lisa Ann Walter, to continue their journey.

Beyond these major releases, HBO Max is also offering other compelling content during this period, including live television events like ER: Caught On Camera Season 1 and Expedition X Season 12. Plus, viewers can catch the latest installment of a highly anticipated HBO Original series, Conan O’Brien Must Go Season 3, all packed into one exciting week.

The combination of deep emotional dives in drama like Mother Mary, the thrilling suspense of Thanksgiving, and the genuine warmth of Abbott Elementary ensures that HBO Max offers something for every mood. It’s a week packed with cinematic variety, proving that whether you crave psychological depth or a good fright, there’s exactly what you need.