The Ultimate Ranking of All HBO Original Series Now Streaming on Netflix

Summary

Netflix has acquired streaming rights to some of HBO's original series, expanding its catalog and appealing to a wider audience.

The HBO shows available on Netflix differ in quality, yet they all offer immense entertainment value and are deserving of being viewed. "Band of Brothers" stands out as Netflix's most exceptional acquisition from HBO, as it presents poignant narratives of WWII soldiers, providing a vivid portrayal of both heroism and the brutal realities of war.

Netflix has recently acquired streaming rights to several of HBO's original series, which marks a significant milestone in the world of streaming. HBO is renowned for producing exceptional original shows, such as The Sopranos, The Wire, and Game of Thrones, which are widely regarded as some of the greatest TV shows ever created. While these iconic series have not yet joined Netflix's rapidly expanding catalog, the streaming platform has managed to secure access to at least some of HBO's original content.

Moving forward, it is likely that Netflix will continue to pursue additional HBO shows, aiming to enhance its own lineup of movies and TV shows, while also attracting a larger audience. The shows that Netflix has obtained so far are already immensely popular, with a few even being considered among the best TV shows currently available on the platform. However, there is some variation in terms of overall quality among these shows. Nevertheless, each of them possesses its own unique brilliance.

4 Ballers

Ballers, starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, is a sports comedy-drama series that follows retired NFL player Spencer Strasmore as he transitions into a new career as a financial manager and agent for current NFL players. Despite concluding with its fifth season, Ballers has garnered significant success and has found new life on Netflix. This show combines drama and comedy in an engaging manner, boasting a talented cast. It appeals particularly to fans of the sport as it delves into NFL free agency and the challenges faced by players in their search for new teams.

While Ballers is undeniably an enjoyable and valuable addition to Netflix's collection, it falls slightly short of the caliber of other HBO shows in the platform's expanding library. Although it may lack the remarkable cinematography and impactful premise found in the others, this does not diminish the entertainment value of the Dwayne Johnson series. Netflix subscribers seeking to indulge in previously unavailable HBO originals will find Ballers worthy of their attention.

3 Insecure

Insecure has garnered numerous nominations and awards throughout its five seasons on HBO, solidifying its status as a fantastic series. Its popularity has only grown over time, reaching its peak in critical acclaim during its fourth season. Notably, season 4 alone received an impressive eight Primetime Emmy Award nominations in 2020. This comedy-drama series delves into the awkward experiences faced by a Black woman in modern America. Starring Issa Rae, who is also a co-creator of the series and drew inspiration from her successful 2011 web series, Awkward Black Girl, Insecure combines comedy and drama to create a highly entertaining viewing experience.

The series is known for its memorable moments and boasts an exceptional cast that contributes to its overall quality. The writing and performances are nothing short of excellent, and the show's thought-provoking messages and defiance of societal norms pack a powerful punch. Furthermore, each season of Insecure has consistently received high praise. However, unlike two other HBO originals currently available on Netflix, Insecure does not showcase groundbreaking cinematography. As a result, it falls slightly short of being the best HBO show offered on Netflix.

2 The Pacific

The Pacific is an acclaimed miniseries that has always been synonymous with HBO, until now. Netflix has successfully acquired the streaming rights from HBO. This visually stunning and emotionally gripping miniseries, produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, garnered an impressive eight Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Miniseries and Outstanding Art Direction. Set in the Pacific Theater of World War II, The Pacific follows three individuals from separate regiments of the United States Marine Corps, offering a haunting and unflinching portrayal of the horrors of war. While its graphic violence and emotional intensity may make it challenging to watch, the show's exceptional quality and captivating characters make it a must-watch. Additionally, the miniseries boasts extraordinary visual effects, evident in its Emmy win for Outstanding Special Visual Effects.

1 Band Of Brothers

Band of Brothers, one of the most acclaimed miniseries of all time, has found its place in Netflix's impressive lineup. The ongoing debate over whether The Pacific or Band of Brothers is superior continues, but the majority of audiences and critics tend to lean towards the latter - and rightfully so. Like its successor, Band of Brothers has garnered numerous accolades, with a staggering 20 Primetime Emmy Award nominations and seven wins. Notably, it was recognized as an Outstanding Miniseries and received an award for Outstanding Directing for a Miniseries.

Produced by Spielberg and Hanks, Band of Brothers successfully captures the bravery of the individuals who fought in this brutal conflict, while exposing the true horrors of war. The series follows Easy Company throughout the European Theater of World War II, weaving together personal accounts of the men involved with pivotal moments of the war. By presenting each episode from a different perspective, the show effectively immerses viewers in a multifaceted portrayal of the war. It is worth noting that this acquisition marks Netflix's acquisition of HBO's most exceptional series, particularly considering the high quality of their other three shows.