Will HBO Max Allow Binge-Watching? Episode Release Plans Revealed

There are several questions still looming concerning AT&T’s forthcoming streaming platform HBO Max. When will HBO Max offer live TV? Will HBO Max replace HBO Go (or HBO Now)? Will HBO Max have ads? While these questions are likely important to potential consumers, WarnerMedia Chief Content Officer Kevin Reilly touched on a different topic during London’s C21 Conference on Wednesday: binge-watching.

In an on-stage discussion, reported more broadly via The Hollywood Reporter, Reilly not only underscored the value of streaming and its evolving tide but also explored HBO Max and its potential. Namely, Reilly explained how HBO Max will do away with the popular binge-viewing promoted by Netflix.

“We think that’s better for building culture and having impact,” Reilly related. “The downside of this binge culture is…it does tend to commodify what we do for a living.”

So, how can subscribers expect to view the content? Reilly revealed that HBO Max originals will release two to three episodes for a series at once with weekly releases to follow. And while future customers may not get to watch content on HBO Max in one sitting, Reilly assured consumers the content will be worthwhile, saying, "The biggest and best-known properties of WarnerMedia will be in HBO Max almost exclusively.”

For those wondering what shows will be on HBO Max, a Green Lantern series has already been alluded to, as well as a "Gossip Girl" sequel, “Friends” reunion, and "South Park," among plenty of other Warner movies, like “Joker.” In addition to the multitude of scripted and unscripted content already ordered by HBO, HBO Max will also feature third-party content from the likes of BBC and Studio Ghibli.

Additionally, Reilly stressed the importance of catering to all age groups with HBO Max, as it will “wrap another service” up into it via a library of content provided by Warner Bros. studio itself. HBO Max will attempt to draw in a variety of different age groups, from children and young adults to more sophisticated elders and international content.

“We are not looking to do our version of ‘Game of Thrones,’" Reilly said. "Generally speaking, we are not competing for the same projects [as HBO].”

HBO Max releases in May 2020.