HBO Max
Warner Bros. Discovery's streaming platform featuring HBO series, DC films, and Max Originals.
Definition
Max (formerly HBO Max) is Warner Bros. Discovery's flagship streaming platform, combining HBO's prestige programming with Warner Bros. films, DC superhero content, and original series. The service represents WBD's direct-to-consumer strategy following the WarnerMedia-Discovery merger.
The platform offers day-and-date releases of select Warner Bros. theatrical films and houses iconic franchises including Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, and the DC Universe.
Why It Matters
Max's HBO foundation means it carries the prestige television brand equity built over decades. The platform's original series compete at the highest quality level, making it attractive for talent seeking premium outlets.
For film professionals, Max's theatrical-to-streaming strategy affects release planning and distribution deal structures.
Examples in Practice
House of the Dragon's success demonstrated HBO's franchise expansion capabilities, generating over 20 million viewers for its premiere and driving subscriptions.
The same-day theatrical and HBO Max release strategy during COVID-19 generated industry controversy while accelerating streaming adoption.
Max's international expansion is bringing the platform to markets previously served by legacy HBO distribution deals.