Discover 3 Underrated HBO Max Movies to Stream This December

As the year draws to a close, HBO Max presents a diverse lineup of films for December 2025. Among the plethora of choices, three underrated gems stand out, offering viewers thrilling action, sharp humor, and exceptional storytelling. This month’s selections include an intense action thriller, a classic mockumentary, and a standout superhero film, each deserving of attention.

Action-Packed Thrill with ‘Atomic Blonde’

One of the highlights available for streaming is Atomic Blonde (2017), featuring an unforgettable performance by Charlize Theron. In this high-octane action thriller set against the backdrop of Cold War tensions in November 1989, Theron portrays MI6 agent Lorraine Broughton. Tasked with recovering a critical list that could disrupt the espionage community, Lorraine navigates the treacherous landscape of West Berlin.

As she confronts various adversaries, including fellow agent David Percival (played by James McAvoy), the film unfolds with gripping twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. With its stylish direction and well-choreographed action sequences, Atomic Blonde is a must-watch for fans of the genre and is currently streaming on HBO Max.

Iconic Mockumentary ‘This Is Spinal Tap’

Another noteworthy film is the legendary mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap (1984), which continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release. Directed by Rob Reiner, the film follows the fictional English heavy metal band Spinal Tap as they attempt to revive their dwindling fame.

Featuring memorable performances from cast members such as Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, and Harry Shearer, the film cleverly satirizes the music industry while delivering laugh-out-loud moments. Its influence is evident in the many rock mockumentaries that followed, including the recent sequel, Spinal Tap II: The End Continues, released in 2025. This iconic film will be available on HBO Max starting December 12, providing a perfect opportunity for both new viewers and long-time fans to enjoy its unique humor.

Superhero Origins in ‘X-Men: First Class’

For those interested in superhero narratives, X-Men: First Class (2011) remains a standout entry in the Marvel franchise. Directed by Matthew Vaughn, this film was produced under time constraints to retain the film rights, leading to a creative process that allowed for minimal studio interference. The result is a compelling story that effectively explores the origins of the X-Men.

The film features a talented ensemble cast, including Michael Fassbender as Erik Lehnsherr, a Holocaust survivor seeking revenge against the Nazi villain Sebastian Shaw (portrayed by Kevin Bacon). Jennifer Lawrence, Rose Byrne, Nicholas Hoult, and Zoë Kravitz round out the cast, each delivering memorable performances. As the tension between peaceful coexistence and militant resistance unfolds, the film captures the complexity of the characters and their struggles. X-Men: First Class is also available for streaming on HBO Max, allowing fans to revisit this pivotal moment in superhero film history.

With these three selections, HBO Max offers a rich viewing experience this December. Whether you are in the mood for action, comedy, or drama, these underrated films are sure to entertain and engage audiences.