27 April 2020
Megan Leavey (2017)
This biopic is also called “Rex”. That’s because it tells the story of Rex the military working dog and his US Marine handler Megan Leavey (played by Kate Mara).
It’s a feelgood film that we all need right now because of COVID-19, and while it does take place during war, the underlying bond between the two soldiers will have you smiling until your cheeks hurt and crying every drop of water out your body.
The pair fight the odds as they’re sent to Iraq on two separate tours, showing bravery and courage in the line of duty. It’s after they’re both injured in combat that the real story begins as Megan tries to adopt Rex and give him a life of peace and comfort instead of the battlefield.
Unlike many other biographical movies, this one gets the thumbs up from the real Megan: “I’m really happy. They did a good job, and I hope people enjoy it. And yes, I was the one in the back of the theatre, sobbing.”
Original African stories by local talent

Empini S1-2
Empini is a high-stakes, action-packed drama set in the ruthless, corrupt world of private security. Season 2 is now streaming, with new episodes every Tuesday.

Youngins S1-2
Stream Tshedza Pictures’s first teen drama, Showmax Original Youngins. S1 and S2 are ready to binge.

The Real Housewives of Durban Seasons 1-5
Our eThekwini queens are back with a brand-new season. Stream Season 5 now, with new episodes every Friday.

Unfollowed S1-2
Unfollowed examines cancel culture in social media through real-life stories of South African celebs. Stream S1-2 now on Showmax.

The Mommy Club S1-3
The Mommy Club sees glamorous Jozi momfluencers navigating the the cutthroat world of “it” moms. Stream S3 now, with new episodes every Saturday.

Adulting S1-3
Four best friends go through the hoops of life, love and everything else. S3 is now streaming, with new episodes landing every Saturday.

The Chocolate Empire S1
The Chocolate Empire follows JB Mauzo, who was recently released from prison, as he rebuilds his life. Stream now, with new episodes every Thursday.

Breekpunt
Breekpunt is a tennis drama about a gutsy teenager fighting for the chance to compete in international tennis. Stream now, with new episodes on Mondays.
Take Me Home S2, now streaming
Stream new episodes of The Chocolate Empire
The best movies to stream

An easy guide to 10 alien invasions
From Teacup’s Assassins and Harbingers, to A Quiet Place’s Death Angels, we break down what to expect when aliens take an interplanetary holiday to raise hell on Earth.

10 inspiring villain origin stories on Showmax
If you want to become a superhero just get bitten by a spider or find some tacky magic jewellery, loser! If you want to become a villain, though, that takes hard work – just ask Knull in Venom: The Last Dance.

The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, plus 10 real-life revolutionaries
Discover the origins of The Hunger Games in The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, and then stream 10 more shows and movies about real-life revolutionaries.

7 iconic Gen Z characters in series and movies on Showmax
Documentary series The Habits of Gen Z asks defining questions about South Africa’s youth. So we’ve turned to 7 series and movies to place Gen Z in a global context.