Max, originally launched as HBO Max in May 2020, underwent a rebranding by Warner Bros in 2023. As it competes with the likes of Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and Disney Plus, Max has carved out its niche, especially with HBO’s exclusive programming and a solid line-up of live-action films. Additionally, it offers a fair number of animated features, yet its collection of anime series leaves much to be desired. While notable anime films are available, the series lineup is minimal. So, what are the top anime available on Max?
Updated on October 22, 2024 by Mark Sammut: The highly anticipated Uzumaki: Spiral Into Horror has completed its run, and the experience was quite polarizing.
6 Rick And Morty: The Anime
A Disappointment for Fans
Initially released as a series of short segments in 2020, Rick and Morty: The Anime expanded into a full series by 2024, giving a new Japanese style to the beloved Western animated show. Unfortunately, it falls short of expectations. The anime explores alternate realities, alien encounters, and romantic fables, fitting into the established universe but lacking in execution. The characters, particularly the main duo, feel off; Morty comes across as overly simplistic, while Rick is depicted with little personality, resembling just a quirky scientist. Secondary characters, including Summer, also suffer from underdevelopment.
Longtime fans of Rick and Morty will likely find little to enjoy, and newcomers may feel lost, especially since the first episode’s convoluted timeline transitions can be frustrating. Subsequent episodes improve slightly but still lack coherence. The anime assumes viewers already know the characters, resulting in a series that is unlikely to satisfy either devoted fans or casual viewers.
Explore Rick And Morty: The Anime On Max
5 Housing Complex C
A Unique Concept Fails to Impress
Housing Complex C debuted in the Fall 2022 anime season, consisting of just four episodes. Its rarity as a horror anime generated initial intrigue, and while it ranks among the top three horror offerings of 2022—having little competition—the series still does not fully deliver on its potential.
The English dub attempts but ultimately struggles to maintain tension in scenes, hampering viewers’ engagement. Set in a coastal town where bizarre happenings coincide with the arrival of a group of outsiders, the series centers around a young girl named Kimi and taps into the area’s eerie backstory. However, the rushed storyline and an overly large cast lead to insufficient character exploration. Comparatively, shows like Summer Time Rendering better encapsulate what Housing Complex C tries to achieve.
Discover Housing Complex C On Max
4 FLCL: Grunge & Shoegaze
Grunge Underwhelms, Shoegaze Shines Occasionally
The original FLCL from the 2000s remains a beloved classic, showcasing an innovative style and vibrant creativity. Despite being chaotic, its themes around growth resonate universally. However, its subsequent sequels cannot replicate its charm, and the latest installments (Grunge and Shoegaze) follow suit.
Grunge, a prequel to the original, offers some engaging moments but often revisits plot points more effectively explored in the first season. Fans might find enjoyment in parts, but expectations should be tempered.
Conversely, FLCL: Shoegaze takes place a decade after 2018’s Alternative and follows two teenagers yearning for connection. Despite its stronger narrative, the series struggles with pacing, hinting that it could have benefited from being longer than its current format.
3 Uzumaki: Spiral Into Horror
An Exceptional Premiere Followed By Disappointment
Junji Ito is recognized as a prominent figure in horror manga, known for crafting numerous eerie tales in various horror subgenres. Unfortunately, adapting his work for anime has proven difficult, often leading to adaptations that do not do justice to the source material.
After enduring a challenging production process, Uzumaki: Spiral Into Horror generated excitement with its initial trailer, hinting at a visual and atmospheric fidelity to Ito’s beloved work. The first episode stands out as a short film that viewers should see.
Despite initial optimism inspired by the pilot, the series quickly faltered with the following episode, leaving viewers disappointed. The storytelling suffered from pacing issues and a lack of tension, hindering its ability to engage audiences. While there were small improvements in later episodes, they weren’t significant enough to change overall perceptions.
In conclusion, Uzumaki is worth viewing for horror aficionados, primarily for its inaugural episode, even if the rest of the series frustrates more than it entertains.
2 Ninjas
Strong Beginnings Fall Flat in the Finale
Ninja Kamui burst onto the scene in late Winter 2024, quickly establishing itself with an impressive opening episode. Its stunning animation and intense fight scenes reminiscent of classics like Ninja Scroll made it stand out amid other notable series of the season. However, as the story progressed, it lost its initial impact and became an afterthought as more engaging shows emerged.
While the exclusive nature of Ninja Kamui allowed for more creative freedom regarding violence, which sparked excitement, it unfortunately also limited its viewership. The bland lead character and the derivative plot further hindered its overall success. Following the violent destruction of his family, Higan embarks on a quest for revenge against his old clan, leading to some thrilling confrontations. However, despite touching on intriguing themes, the narrative often feels clichéd and overly straightforward.
As the series continues, the focus shifts to mecha elements, which detracts from its energy and urgency. Despite this drop in quality, a second season has already been greenlit, indicating potential for improvement.
1. Suicide Squad Isekai
A Moderately Enjoyable Experience
It’s a sign of weakness for Max that Suicide Squad Isekai stands out as the top anime on the platform. While the show provides some entertainment, it is ultimately forgettable and merely average. The disparity between Max’s anime films and series is significant; consumers might find the anime series lack the must-watch allure, serving instead as an underwhelming supplement to the platform.
Not all is lost; Suicide Squad Isekai offers enjoyable moments. Produced by Wit Studio, the series tosses DC’s iconic characters into a formulaic fantasy setting where they confront a variety of adversaries. The engaging nature of its characters, who retain their charm from the source material, shines through, making them appealing to watch, especially with Harley Quinn as the central figure.
Their dynamics add depth to the action sequences, most of which are executed well, particularly the one involving a dragon.
Discover Suicide Squad Isekai On Max
Recommended Western Animation for Anime Fans
Since subscribers can breeze through Max’s limited anime catalog, they may seek additional entertainment options. Fortunately, the platform is home to commendable Western animated shows, some of which are influenced by anime aesthetics.
Samurai Jack
The beloved animated series tells the tale of Samurai Jack, a prince from ancient Japan flung into a dystopian future where the villain Aku reigns supreme. Jack’s mission to vanquish Aku and return to his time allows for a captivating exploration of his character across the seasons.
Thanks to Genndy Tartakovsky’s distinct vision, Samurai Jack impresses with its episodic adventures and overarching storyline in later seasons. Jack is portrayed as both formidable and flawed, making his journey all the more compelling.
Additionally, shows like Unicorn: Warriors Eternal and Primal are also worth checking out for fans of animated series.
Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated
The iconic Scooby-Doo! franchise needs no introduction; however, Mystery Incorporated sets itself apart as a noteworthy entry. While it retains classic monster-hunting elements, it introduces an engaging storyline that evolves throughout its two seasons.
The characters embark on a more meaningful journey, complete with character growth and genuine romantic relationships, something rarely seen in past iterations. With its unique blend of humor and mystery, along with a stunning art style, Mystery Incorporated stands as a beloved series for both fans and new viewers.
Explore Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated On Max
Teen Titans
Teen Titans effectively showcases its anime influences with a vibrant art style that resonates with fans. The series centers on the adventures of youthful heroes such as Robin, Raven, Starfire, Cyborg, and Beast Boy, each contributing their unique attributes to the group dynamic.
Each season delves into character-centric plots that shift in tone to match individual personalities, creating engaging narratives filled with humor, action, and drama that stand the test of time.
Scavengers Reign
Despite its quieter release in late 2023, Scavengers Reign offers a unique take on the sci-fi genre. Following the journey of diverse survivors from a single ship stranded on a mysterious planet, the series captivates audiences with its meticulously crafted ecosystem and visually stunning animation.
This 12-episode series treats viewers to rich storytelling, immersing them in Vesta’s world while presenting imaginative adventures that resonate with classic storytelling. Although not explicitly anime, its aesthetic draws inspiration from Japanese animation traditions.
Explore Scavengers Reign On Max
Leave a Reply