HBO Max: 3 Must-Watch Shows for March 2024 | How-To Geek

March often feels like a liminal space—not quite spring, not quite winter—and a perfect time for a fresh comfort watch or something fresh to capture your attention. HBO Max certainly doesn’t make the decision any easier, boasting a library that feels almost limitless. This week, from March 1st to 8th, three shows stand out: a remarkably candid documentary about a comedy icon, a stylish period drama set in the world of New York advertising and a uniquely savage animated series.

A Comedic Legacy Under Scrutiny: I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not

Chevy Chase’s career, from his early days on Saturday Night Live to iconic roles in films like National Lampoon’s Vacation and Fletch, has brought laughter to generations. Yet, behind the on-screen charisma, Chase has faced criticism and controversy. Marina Zenovich’s new documentary, I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not, delves into both the triumphs and the turbulent aspects of his life and career.

The 97-minute CNN Films documentary, currently holding a 93% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes, traces Chase’s 50-plus-year journey, from his founding role on Saturday Night Live to his success as a box office draw in the 70s and 80s. It doesn’t shy away from exploring the strained relationships he’s had along the way. Zenovich, known for her previous work on documentaries like Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired and Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind, utilizes a wealth of archival footage and interviews with those who have known Chase both personally and professionally. Interviewees include Dan Aykroyd, Goldie Hawn, Lorne Michaels, Ryan Reynolds, Martin Short, and Beverly D’Angelo. The film tackles demanding subjects, including Chase’s firing from the series Community and his well-documented feud with SNL castmate Terry Sweeney, the show’s first openly gay cast member.

The documentary aims for a balanced portrayal, offering insights for both fans and critics of Chase, painting a picture of a complex man whose ego and childhood trauma may have contributed to his often-difficult behavior.

The Golden Age of Advertising: Revisiting Mad Men

Mad Men, the AMC series that ran from 2007 to 2015, remains a landmark achievement in television. It was a pioneering show for cinematic, character-driven storytelling, paving the way for series like Breaking Bad and Succession. Notably, it was the first basic cable series to win the Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series, a feat it accomplished four years in a row, ultimately winning 16 Emmys throughout its run.

If you haven’t experienced it yet, now is the time. The series centers on Don Draper (Jon Hamm), a charismatic and enigmatic advertising executive at Sterling Cooper, who harbors a hidden past and a carefully constructed identity.

The show’s strength lies in its ensemble cast, featuring Peggy Olson (Elisabeth Moss, later of The Handmaid’s Tale), a determined copywriter; Joan Holloway (Christina Hendricks), the sharp and capable office manager; Roger Sterling (John Slattery), a witty and cynical partner; and Betty Draper (January Jones), Don’s increasingly disillusioned wife. Each episode sparked countless conversations, fueled by its exploration of workplace dynamics, gender roles, and the allure of a bygone era—all set against a backdrop of copious smoking and a constant undercurrent of secrets.

Primal Instincts: Genndy Tartakovsky’s Primal

Watching a lot of television is a professional hazard, and much of it relies on dialogue and intricate plots. Genndy Tartakovsky’s Primal, created by the visionary behind Samurai Jack and Star Wars: Clone Wars, offers a refreshing departure. It’s a visual feast, prioritizing storytelling through animation and action over spoken words.

Primal is, in its essence, primal. It’s a violent, often brutal series not intended for children. The plot is deceptively simple: survive. The show follows Spear, a caveman, and Fang, a Tyrannosaurus Rex, who form an unlikely bond after both experiencing devastating loss. Each episode depicts their struggle for survival in a prehistoric world, hunting for food, defending themselves from predators, and navigating the harsh elements. The series, which began airing in 2019, has garnered critical acclaim, winning five Emmy Awards.

If you’re looking for something visually stunning and emotionally resonant, despite its lack of dialogue, Primal is a unique and compelling choice.

This week’s HBO Max offerings provide a diverse range of viewing experiences, from a revealing look into the life of a comedic legend to a stylish period drama and a visually arresting animated series. Whether you’re seeking candid storytelling, sophisticated drama, or pure, visceral action, there’s something here to captivate your attention.