Hosting films, such as Zack Snyder's Justice League and Godzilla vs. Kong, HBO Max is currently one of the most buzzworthy streaming services. Though these are certainly exciting movies, there are also numerous documentaries -- old and new -- available on the service.
While some of these docs first premiered on HBO's normal programming, many are Max Originals that offer a look at some of society's darkest and most disturbing events in the past several decades. From heinous serial killers to equally dangerous amusement park rides, these documentaries round out HBO Max's already superb lineup. Here's a look at just a few of the best documentary films on the ever-growing streaming platform.
Class Action Park
First virtually screened at the 2020 Florida Film Festival, Class Action Park recalls the infamous New York independent water park that was as frightening as it was fun. Featuring interviews from employees and patrons of the park, the documentary recalls just how perilous many of the rides were on their best days. This includes an exclusive look at many of the prototype rides that never became mainstays, such as the highway disaster "Man in a Ball in a Ball." Featuring celebrity narration and guests such as John Hodgman and Chris Gethard, the film was well-received by critics and viewers, who lauded it for portraying the grim reality of the park's version of summer fun.
I'll Be Gone in the Dark
I'll Be Gone in the Dark capitalizes on the current popularity of true crime and historical criminal cases to recount an author's look at one of California's most notorious serial killers. It follows the late true crime author Michelle McNamara's deep research into the Golden State Killer, who committed numerous burglaries, murders and rapes during his reign of terror in the '70s and '80s. The series is an adaptation of McNamara's book of the same name that shines a light on evidence that finally saw the killer arrested.
Hell in the Heartland
Hell in the Heartland is another adaptation of a true crime book, with author Jax Miller and former investigator Sarah Cailean looking into a 1999 case that rocked a town in Oklahoma. After teenagers Lauria Bible and Ashley Freeman went missing, the situation spiraled out of control, resulting in several theories concerning drugs and police coverups abounding.
The Lady and the Dale
The Lady and the Dale revolves around the eponymous Dale and its creator, Elizabeth Carmichael. An energy-efficient, three-wheeled car, the Dale's launch came amid growing fuel prices and a downward economic turn for much of the modern world. As things heated up for the automobile, they only got worse for Carmichael, whose personal life was spotlighted more and more. This documentary is perfect for car buffs wanting a history lesson on one of the automotive industry's forgotten icons. It also offers a look at several other branching storylines, like '70s politics, all beautifully brought to life amid colorful animation.
Leaving Neverland
One of the most controversial documentaries in the past few years is easily Leaving Neverland. The 2019 film details the accusations put forth by Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who both alleged to have been sexually abused by pop music icon Michael Jackson. The documentary covers their mutual meeting with Michael, their brief exploits together and the supposed abuse that scarred them into their current adult lives. The gravity of Jackson's death is also touched upon and is treated as the triggering event that caused the victims to come forward. The film was hailed by critics as a harrowing masterpiece, while audiences were much more critical. This led to lawsuits from Michael Jackson's estate as well as several rebuttal documentaries.
Atlanta's Missing and Murdered: The Lost Children
Atlanta's Missing and Murdered is based on the Atlanta child murders, which resulted in nearly 30 confirmed homicides while the killer was active. Its production stemmed from Atlanta mayor Keisha Bottoms' reopening of the case, with many feeling the man found guilty of the crimes was not the true killer.
The documentary dives into the life of convicted killer Wayne Williams, as well as the terrifying aura surrounding Atlanta's inner-city area during the period of the murders. Its focus on the early '80s also gives a dark inversion of the nostalgia still felt for the era, highlighting Atlanta's growth from a troubled Southern city into the metropolis it currently is.
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McMillions
Amid all of the murder and mayhem in many of HBO Max's documentaries is one film that offers a look at a super-sized scandal. McMillions involves the famous Monopoly sweepstakes hosted by McDonald's, and how many games were manipulated throughout the '90s via an immense fraud scheme. It interviews those affected, accomplices willing and unwitting as well as the family of perpetrator Jerry Jacobson.
Paradise Lost
The granddaddy of true crime documentaries is easily Paradise Lost, which helped put HBO on the map as the home of gripping, cutting edge material when it released in 1996. This landmark movie detailed the trial of the West Memphis Three, who were accused of assaulting and murdering three boys as part of a supposed Satanic ritual.
The events portrayed in the film occurred in an era still reeling from the '80s "Satanic Panic," with the musical and entertainment tastes of the accused being scrutinized in order to link them to the supposed acts. The townspeople and many others are interviewed, painting the picture of a reclusive, conservative town quick to become caught up in the hysteria. Paradise Lost is also notable for its use of Metallica's music. Its success spawned two official sequels that are also available on HBO Max, bringing the movie's popularity on HBO full circle.