The best drama series and movies to stream on Showmax

These tearjerking drama series and movies will bring on all the feels - stream them all on Showmax, but be sure to keep the tissues handy, and bring along your nerves of steel.

We’ve got heart-pounding crime dramas, psychological thrillers where we know things aren’t all going to be okay, romantic dramas that clutch at our hearts, and devastating stories that unfold in emergency rooms, on the streets, in troubled homes and in workplaces of all kinds.

The Life of Chuck (2024)

In this Stephen King adaptation, the life of Charles Krantz unfolds across three stunning chapters, filled with mystery, celebration, and fantasy.

Maria (2024)

In this biopic. Maria Callas, the world's greatest opera singer, confronts her identity as she lives the last days of her life in 1970s Paris.

Dìdi (2024)

Follow 13-year-old Chris Wang as he navigates his identity, first love, friendships, and family life during the summer of 2008.

iThonga S1

Follow the journey of twin brothers whose bond is shattered when one is murdered, leaving the other to inherit a world of corruption and violence.

Made in South Africa

Juror #2 (2024)

A juror in a murder trial struggles with a moral dilemma as he hides a secret that could sway the verdict in this compelling courtroom drama.

Last Breath (2025)

Woody Harrelson and Simu are in a race against time in this thrilling true story that follows seasoned deep-sea divers as they battle the raging elements to rescue their crew.

A still from Finding Optel showing Claire looking through binoculars

Finding Optel (2024)

A whimsical detective story. Claire Abrahams is a teenager who finds her quirky neighbourhood's lost things. When the community's beloved stray dog goes missing, Claire is determined to find her.

OriginalMade in South Africa

September 5 (2025)

This Oscar-nominated retelling of a historical tragedy follows the sports broadcasting crew that captured the 1972 Munich Olympics hostage crisis.

Conclave (2024)

Secrets, drama, power, and faith collide when the Pope dies, leaving Cardinal Lawrence with the task of organising the conclave to elect a new Pope.

The Brutalist (2024)

Adrien Brody delivers an Oscar-winning performance in this period drama about a visionary architect who meets a wealthy client who changes his life.

First

White Bird (2023)

In the sequel to Wonder (2017), former bully Julian is struggling at his new school, until a visit from his grandmother offers perspective.

Thabo Bopape as Mambo Mugodo, Makoma Mohale as Queen Modjadji, and Masutang Rasekele as Dzungundini

Queen Modjadji S1

Queen Modjadji tells the story of a matriarchal dynasty with the ability to summon the rain. Binge every episode on Showmax.

Made in South Africa

Rob Peace (2024)

An underprivileged, gifted young Black man reaches Yale University, only for past injustices to threaten his future, in this emotional drama based on a true story.

Matlock S1

Retired 70-year-old Madeline Matlock rejoins the work force at a prestigious law firm, where she uses her wily tactics to win cases and expose wrongdoing in this hit reboot.

Better Man (2024)

This Oscar-nominated unusual biopic tells the tale of pop superstar Robbie Williams's pursuit of money, fame and acceptance.

Here (2024)

Forrest Gump stars Tom Hanks and Robin Wright are reunited for this quirky yet emotional drama. Follow the lives of multiple generations who have lived in the same home over a century.

Code 13 S1

In the gritty heart of Johannesburg, a hard-edged police unit scrambles to recapture classified escaped prisoners before anyone finds out.

Made in South Africa

We Live In Time (2024)

An emotional and unconventional love story led by Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh. Almut and Tobias meet, fall in love and start a family, but their love is tested by cancer.

Am I OK? (2024)

In this queer comedy-drama about self-discovery and friendship, a woman in her 30s navigates coming out and her lifelong friend's impending move to London.

Mary & George S1

Mary Villiers moulds her beautiful son, George, to seduce King James I, intending to gain riches and influence through outrageous schemes.

Looking for something lighter?

The Mindy Project S1-6

Dr Mindy Lahiri (Mindy Kaling from 'The Office') juggles her personal dreams and professional duties in a quirky New York medical practice.

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Made in South Africa

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills S15 on Showmax

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The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills S14-15

The series follows six of the most affluent women in the country as they enjoy the lavish lifestyle that only Beverly Hills can provide.

First

Smurfs (2025)

When Papa Smurf is abducted by the evil wizard siblings, Smurfette and the other Smurfs travel to the real world to rescue him.

It's Florida, Man S1-2

This outrageous HBO comedy is a love letter to the beaches, backwaters and people of a misunderstood yet magical American state.

First

Volspoed S1

Volspoed follows Antonie and Ronette Marx, a husband and wife chasing different versions of success in the fast-paced world of endurance racing.

OriginalMade in South Africa

How to Train Your Dragon: Bringing Hiccup and Astrid to life

Mason Thames and Nico Parker talk about playing the leads in the 2025 live-action adaptation of the fantasy classic How To Train Your Dragon.

First

These shows are out of this world

The Mindy Project S1-6

Dr Mindy Lahiri (Mindy Kaling from 'The Office') juggles her personal dreams and professional duties in a quirky New York medical practice.

20+ addictive South African reality shows to stream

Stream The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip - Africa, Vaal Riviera, The Real Housewives of Durban, The Mommy Club, and more of South Africa's best reality shows on Showmax.

Made in South Africa

Where to watch The Real Housewives franchise online

Original

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills S14-15

The series follows six of the most affluent women in the country as they enjoy the lavish lifestyle that only Beverly Hills can provide.

First

Smurfs (2025)

When Papa Smurf is abducted by the evil wizard siblings, Smurfette and the other Smurfs travel to the real world to rescue him.

It's Florida, Man S1-2

This outrageous HBO comedy is a love letter to the beaches, backwaters and people of a misunderstood yet magical American state.

First

Volspoed S1

Volspoed follows Antonie and Ronette Marx, a husband and wife chasing different versions of success in the fast-paced world of endurance racing.

OriginalMade in South Africa

How to Train Your Dragon: Bringing Hiccup and Astrid to life

Mason Thames and Nico Parker talk about playing the leads in the 2025 live-action adaptation of the fantasy classic How To Train Your Dragon.

First

Showmax is the home of HBO in Africa

It's Florida, Man S1-2

This outrageous HBO comedy is a love letter to the beaches, backwaters and people of a misunderstood yet magical American state.

First

Bill Maher: Is Anyone Else Seeing This? is on Showmax

Bill Maher: Is Anyone Else Seeing This? (2025)

Comedian Bill Maher offers his scathing commentary on conservative and liberal politics, trends in modern parenting, sex and dating.

First

Brett Goldstein: The Second Best Night Of Your Life on Showmax

Brett Goldstein: The Second Best Night Of Your Life (2025)

Charm and wit take centre stage as Emmy winner Brett Goldstein (Ted Lasso) ditches his Roy Kent edge to deliver hilarious insights.

First

The Chair Company S1

After a humiliating incident at work, Ron stumbles onto a hidden conspiracy: beneath everyday life lies a secret world only he can see.

First

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