Before the streaming deluge blurred the lines of “original” content, HBO stood as a beacon of television excellence. “It’s not TV, it’s HBO” wasn’t just a catchy slogan; it was a promise of unparalleled storytelling, groundbreaking performances, and a cinematic approach to the small screen. For over four decades, HBO has cultivated a reputation for quality, shaping the very landscape of television. And for viewers in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, many of these iconic series are readily accessible on OSN+. Join us as we embark on a meticulously crafted exploration of HBO’s ten most iconic series, a testament to the network’s enduring legacy, many of which you can experience on OSN+.
Prepare for a deep dive, a journey into the heart of what made HBO the gold standard, and a guide to experiencing these masterpieces on OSN+ in the MENA region.
10. Watchmen (2019): A Superhero Saga Reimagined (Available on OSN+)
Damon Lindelof’s Watchmen isn’t just a superhero show; it’s a profound exploration of race, history, and the very nature of heroism. Building upon the foundation of Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons’ groundbreaking comic book, Lindelof crafts a narrative that resonates with contemporary anxieties and social issues. The series confronts the often-overlooked history of racial violence in America, bringing the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre to the forefront. This historical backdrop serves as the origin story for Will Reeves (Jovan Adepo), whose experiences shape his complex relationship with costumed vigilantism.
Regina King delivers a tour-de-force performance as Angela Abar, a.k.a. Sister Night, a woman grappling with her own identity and a tangled web of secrets. The series masterfully weaves together disparate storylines, exploring themes of trauma, justice, and the cyclical nature of violence. Watchmen isn’t afraid to challenge conventional superhero tropes, presenting a world where the lines between good and evil are blurred, and the consequences of power are far-reaching. The show’s audacious storytelling, combined with its stunning visuals and powerful performances, solidifies its place among HBO’s most ambitious and thought-provoking creations. Catch this captivating series on OSN+ in the MENA region.
9. Succession (2018-2023): The Ruthless Game of Power (Available on OSN+)
Succession offers a darkly comedic and deeply insightful look into the lives of the Roy family, a dynasty of media moguls whose wealth and influence shape the global landscape. The series centers on Logan Roy (Brian Cox), the aging patriarch whose declining health ignites a fierce battle among his children for control of the family empire, Waystar RoyCo. Connor (Alan Ruck), Kendall (Jeremy Strong), Roman (Kieran Culkin), and Shiv Roy (Sarah Snook) engage in a relentless power struggle, each vying for their father’s approval and the ultimate prize: the keys to the kingdom.
The show’s brilliance lies in its nuanced portrayal of these flawed and often unlikeable characters. Their ambition, insecurity, and deep-seated family trauma drive their actions, creating a complex and compelling dynamic. Successionisn’t just about wealth and power; it’s about the corrosive effects of unchecked privilege, the toxic dynamics of family relationships, and the human cost of ambition. The series’ sharp writing, combined with its exceptional ensemble cast, makes for a truly captivating and often unsettling viewing experience. Experience the Roy family drama on OSN+ in the MENA region.
8. Big Little Lies (2017-Present): Secrets and Lies in Monterey (Available on OSN+)
Big Little Lies weaves a tangled web of secrets, lies, and betrayals within the seemingly idyllic community of Monterey, California. The series boasts a star-studded cast, including Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Shailene Woodley, Zoë Kravitz, Laura Dern, Adam Scott, and Alexander Skarsgård, each delivering powerful performances that bring their complex characters to life. The series explores themes of domestic abuse, infidelity, and the pressures of motherhood, all set against the backdrop of a murder mystery that unfolds throughout the first season.
Big Little Lies delves into the lives of a group of affluent women whose seemingly perfect lives are shattered by hidden truths and simmering tensions. The show’s strength lies in its nuanced portrayal of female relationships, its exploration of the dark side of suburban life, and its ability to keep viewers guessing until the very end. Unravel the mysteries of Monterey with Big Little Lies on OSN+ in the MENA region.
7. Westworld (2016-2022): Where Humanity and Technology Collide (Available on OSN+)
Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy’s Westworld reimagines Michael Crichton’s classic sci-fi thriller for the modern age, creating a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating exploration of consciousness, free will, and the nature of reality. Set in a futuristic theme park populated by lifelike android hosts, Westworld blurs the lines between human and machine, raising profound questions about what it means to be alive. The series features an ensemble cast, including Anthony Hopkins, Evan Rachel Wood, Thandiwe Newton, and Ed Harris, each delivering captivating performances that add layers of complexity to the show’s intricate narrative.
Westworld is a mind-bending journey into a world where the past, present, and future collide, where the boundaries between reality and illusion are constantly shifting. The show’s ambitious storytelling, combined with its stunning visuals and thought-provoking themes, makes it a truly unique and unforgettable viewing experience. Explore the depths of Westworld on OSN+ in the MENA region.
6. Boardwalk Empire (2010-2014): A Prohibition-Era Saga (Available on OSN+)
From the pen of Sopranos writer Terence Winter, Boardwalk Empire transports viewers to the roaring twenties, a time of Prohibition, organized crime, and burgeoning wealth. Steve Buscemi delivers a captivating performance as Enoch “Nucky” Thompson, the treasurer of Atlantic County, New Jersey, whose political connections and criminal enterprises make him a powerful figure in the underworld. The series chronicles Nucky’s rise to prominence amidst the backdrop of a changing America, exploring the complex interplay of politics, crime, and social upheaval.
Boardwalk Empire boasts a rich tapestry of characters, both fictional and based on real-life figures, including Al Capone (Stephen Graham) and Lucky Luciano. The show’s attention to historical detail is meticulous, recreating the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of the Prohibition era with stunning accuracy. Boardwalk Empire is a visually stunning and narratively compelling drama that offers a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal period in American history. Immerse yourself in the roaring twenties on OSN+ in the MENA region.
5. Band of Brothers (2001): A War Story of Unparalleled Scope (Available on OSN+)
Produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, Band of Brothers stands as a landmark achievement in television storytelling. Based on Stephen E. Ambrose’s book of the same name, the miniseries tells the true story of Easy Company, a unit of paratroopers who fought in some of the most crucial battles of World War II. The series follows these men from their initial training to their experiences on the front lines, capturing the camaraderie, fear, and sacrifice that defined their service.
Band of Brothers is a powerful and moving tribute to the soldiers who fought in World War II. The series’ realistic depiction of combat, combined with its focus on the individual stories of the men in Easy Company, creates a deeply emotional and impactful viewing experience. Band of Brothers is not just a war story; it’s a story about courage, brotherhood, and the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. Witness their bravery on OSN+ in the MENA region.
4. Curb Your Enthusiasm (2000-2024): The Art of the Awkward (Available on OSN+)
Larry David’s Curb Your Enthusiasm is a masterclass in cringe comedy. David stars as a fictionalized version of himself, a semi-retired television writer and producer whose social awkwardness and penchant for petty grievances lead him into a series of hilariously uncomfortable situations. The show’s improvisational style and its focus on everyday annoyances make it both relatable and outrageously funny.
Curb Your Enthusiasm is a celebration of the absurdities of human behavior. Larry’s inability to filter his thoughts and his willingness to challenge social conventions, no matter how trivial, are the source of much of the show’s humor. The series’ long run and its consistent quality are a testament to David’s comedic genius and his ability to find humor in the mundane. Embrace the awkwardness with the show’s improvisational style and its focus on everyday annoyances make it both relatable and outrageously funny.
Curb Your Enthusiasm is a celebration of the absurdities of human behavior. Larry’s inability to filter his thoughts and his willingness to challenge social conventions, no matter how trivial, are the source of much of the show’s humor. The series’ long run and its consistent quality are a testament to David’s comedic genius and his ability to find humor in the mundane. Embrace the awkwardness with Curb Your Enthusiasm on OSN+ in the MENA region.
3. The Wire (2002-2008): A Groundbreaking Crime Drama (Available on OSN+)
David Simon’s The Wire is not just a crime drama; it’s a social commentary, a sprawling epic that examines the complex interconnectedness of urban life. The series delves into the drug trade in Baltimore, exploring the perspectives of law enforcement, drug dealers, politicians, and ordinary citizens caught in the crossfire. The Wire avoids simplistic narratives and easy answers, presenting a nuanced and often bleak portrait of a city struggling with systemic problems.
The Wire is renowned for its realistic dialogue, its complex characters, and its unflinching portrayal of urban decay. The show’s innovative structure, which shifts its focus from season to season, allows it to explore different facets of the city’s social fabric. From the drug-infested streets to the halls of power, The Wire paints a vivid and unforgettable picture of urban America. Experience the raw power of The Wire on OSN+ in the MENA region.
2. Game of Thrones (2011-2019): A Fantasy Epic for the Ages (Available on OSN+)
Based on George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” book series, Game of Thrones redefined the fantasy genre on television. Set in the mythical land of Westeros, the series follows the power struggles between noble families vying for control of the Iron Throne. Game of Thrones is a world of dragons, magic, and political intrigue, where alliances are fragile and betrayal is always lurking around the corner.
Game of Thrones captivated audiences with its complex characters, its intricate plotlines, and its stunning visual effects. The series’ scale and ambition were unprecedented for television, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable viewing experience. While the show’s ending may have been controversial, its impact on popular culture is undeniable. Game of Thrones raised the bar for television storytelling and ushered in a new era of epic fantasy on the small screen. Journey to Westeros with Game of Thrones on OSN+ in the MENA region.
1. The Sopranos (1999-2007): The Godfather of Modern Television (Available on OSN+)
David Chase’s The Sopranos is not just a television show; it’s a cultural phenomenon. The series revolutionized television drama, paving the way for the wave of complex, character-driven shows that followed. James Gandolfini’s portrayal of Tony Soprano, the conflicted mob boss struggling to balance his family life with his criminal empire, is one of the most iconic performances in television history.
The Sopranos explored the inner workings of the Mafia with unprecedented realism and psychological depth. The series delved into Tony’s anxieties, his insecurities, and his struggles with mental health, humanizing a character who could have easily been a one-dimensional villain. The Sopranos is a masterpiece of storytelling, a show that is both funny and tragic, violent and tender, and always compelling. It’s a show that changed the face of television and continues to resonate with audiences today. Witness the legacy of The Sopranos on OSN+ in the MENA region.
This curated list represents just a fraction of HBO’s vast library of exceptional programming. These ten shows, however, stand as shining examples of the network’s commitment to quality, innovation, and storytelling excellence. For viewers in the MENA region, OSN+ provides a gateway to experiencing these remarkable series, allowing you to immerse yourself in the world of HBO’s most iconic creations.
