Sometimes, a TV show only needs a few minutes to prove it's something special. HBO has mastered this art, with series that grab you from the very first scene and never let go. Whether it's the chilling cold open of The Last of Us or the murder-mystery setup of The White Lotus, these shows know how to make an entrance. Here's a look at some HBO masterpieces that announced their greatness within the first 10 minutes.
The White Lotus (2021–Present)
From the moment a sad young man chats with an older couple at the airport about a death at a resort, The White Lotus had viewers hooked. The opening juxtaposes that ominous conversation with flashbacks of excited families arriving in Maui, instantly setting up a murder mystery. Within minutes, you're scanning every character, wondering who the victim is and who the killer might be. The iconic waving staff members and a stellar cast—including Connie Britton, Murray Bartlett, Jake Lacy, and Sydney Sweeney—make this a binge-worthy six-episode ride.
The Penguin (2024)
Colin Farrell's transformation into Oswald "Oz" Cobb is nothing short of mesmerizing. The show opens with news reports of an explosion, and we see Oz's silhouette against the window. When the camera finally reveals his face under heavy makeup, it's a chilling moment. The first scenes show Oz confronting mob boss's son Alberto Falcone, and you quickly realize this isn't just a superhero spinoff—it's a gritty gangster drama. The tension builds as Oz's cunning nature emerges, setting the stage for a thrilling series.
True Detective (2014–Present)
Season 1 of True Detective begins with a dark, creepy night scene: a body being taken into the forest, a fire breaking out. It's clear something terrible is happening. The scene fades to officer Marty Hart (Woody Harrelson) giving a statement about his partner, Rusty Cohle (Matthew McConaughey). The mystery of what happened between them and the case of Dora Lange unfolds, pulling you into a haunting narrative that many consider one of the best detective shows ever.
Game of Thrones (2011–2019)
The opening of Game of Thrones is iconic: Night's Watch men attacked by White Walkers in a snowy landscape. The cinematography, costumes, and intensity signal a show that spares no budget. Then, the scene shifts to the Starks on a lush green hill, and you know this family will be central. For fans of George R.R. Martin's novels, it's like watching the pages come to life. This epic fantasy series became a cultural phenomenon, and its first 10 minutes were a promise of greatness.
The Last of Us (2023–Present)
The Last of Us opens with a 1968 news program where a scientist predicts a fungal pandemic. The audience laughs, but as his explanation grows more real, panic sets in. For those who played the video game, this scene is even more impactful. The story then jumps to 2003, introducing Joel (Pedro Pascal) and setting the stage for a post-apocalyptic journey. It's a masterclass in building tension and emotional stakes from the start.
These HBO shows prove that a strong opening can define a series. Whether it's the mystery of The White Lotus, the grit of The Penguin, or the epic scope of Game of Thrones, the first 10 minutes are often enough to know you're watching a masterpiece. For more on how TV shows hook audiences, check out our article on 80 Years of Fantasy: The 10 Greatest Movie Masterpieces, Ranked and The 2020s' Horror Renaissance: 5 True Masterpieces That Redefined the Genre.
