Over the past three decades, television has transformed from a landscape of formulaic sitcoms and predictable procedurals into a prestige medium for searing drama. At the forefront of this evolution stands HBO, a network that has produced crime masterpieces like The Sopranos and The Wire, historical epics like Chernobyl and Band of Brothers, and fantasy juggernauts that have defined the small screen. But what about the series that don't quite reach that gold standard? These near-perfect HBO shows are still worth investing in, even if they fall short of perfection.
1. 'Carnivále' (2003–2005)
One of HBO's most ambitious undertakings, Carnivále is a forgotten gem of 2000s television. Set in the Depression-era Dust Bowl, it blends period drama, biblical fantasy, and folklore horror into an epic battle of good and evil. Ben (Nick Stahl), a man with healing powers, joins a traveling circus, while Brother Justin Crowe (Clancy Brown), a Methodist minister, discovers he can bend people to his will. With its eerily beautiful atmosphere and rich mythology steeped in Gnostic mysticism and Templar conspiracies, Carnivále is a uniquely enrapturing dark fantasy. Though high production costs led to its cancellation after two seasons, it delivers a satisfying conclusion to its main story, making it a worthwhile watch despite some unresolved threads.
2. 'Game of Thrones' (2011–2019)
While its final season left many disappointed, Game of Thrones remains a monumental achievement for six of its eight seasons. Based on George R.R. Martin's novels, it follows the ruling families of Westeros in a devastating war for power. The production is ceaselessly astonishing, with shocking twists, violent betrayals, and unbearable suspense making for addictive, high-stakes drama. Even with its underwhelming conclusion, the series reached heights that few shows have matched, and it remains a defining title of 2010s entertainment. For those who missed it, the journey is still worth taking.
3. 'Oz' (1997–2003)
As HBO's first one-hour scripted drama, Oz broke barriers with its gritty realism and confronting violence. Set in the Oswald Maximum Security Correctional Facility, it follows inmates in an experimental ward designed to promote reform, but instead sees heinous acts of violence and manipulation. Its hard-edged brutality hasn't aged, and the series remains an enthralling, deeply disturbing descent into life behind bars. It laid the foundation for the dark, serialized drama that would become HBO's hallmark.
4. 'Westworld' (2016–2022)
Thematically loaded and decisively clever, Westworld reimagines the 1973 Western sci-fi film with layers of intrigue and social commentary. Set in the 2050s, it begins with android inhabitants of a wild west-themed amusement park becoming sentient and rebelling against abusive human visitors. The series evolves into a real-world conflict involving a powerful A.I. named Rehoboam. Combining Western themes of morality and freedom with sci-fi explorations of consciousness and technological danger, Westworld delivers four seasons of captivating drama, anchored by a brilliant ensemble cast and majestic production design.
5. 'Boardwalk Empire' (2010–2014)
HBO's crime television legacy continues with Boardwalk Empire, a Prohibition-era drama that delves into the complex morality and cutthroat stakes of Atlantic City's underworld. With meticulous period detail and a powerhouse performance by Steve Buscemi, the series explores the rise of organized crime through the eyes of political figure Nucky Thompson. Though it may not have reached the iconic status of The Sopranos, it remains a gripping, well-crafted saga that crime drama fans should not miss.
6. 'Deadwood' (2004–2006)
Set in the lawless gold-mining camp of Deadwood, South Dakota, this Western drama is a masterclass in character development and dialogue. Creator David Milch's Shakespearean prose brings to life a cast of real historical figures, including Al Swearengen (Ian McShane) and Seth Bullock (Timothy Olyphant). Though canceled after three seasons, Deadwood is revered for its raw authenticity and moral complexity. A 2019 film provided a satisfying conclusion, cementing its place as a near-perfect series.
7. 'The Leftovers' (2014–2017)
Based on Tom Perrotta's novel, The Leftovers explores the aftermath of a global event where 2% of the world's population mysteriously vanishes. The series is a haunting meditation on grief, faith, and human connection, anchored by powerful performances from Justin Theroux, Carrie Coon, and Ann Dowd. Its three seasons build to a deeply emotional and ambiguous finale that has been hailed as one of the best in television history. For those seeking thought-provoking drama, this is a must-watch.
8. 'The Wire' (2002–2008)
Often cited as one of the greatest TV shows ever, The Wire is a near-perfect examination of urban life in Baltimore. Through its five seasons, it dissects the drug trade, law enforcement, politics, education, and the media with unflinching realism. Creator David Simon's journalistic approach and the show's sprawling ensemble cast make it a dense, rewarding experience. While its slow burn may not appeal to everyone, those who invest are rewarded with a profound, unforgettable narrative.
9. 'Chernobyl' (2019)
This five-part miniseries is a harrowing account of the 1986 nuclear disaster and its aftermath. With meticulous attention to historical detail and a focus on the human cost, Chernobyl is a masterclass in tension and tragedy. The performances, particularly by Jared Harris and Stellan Skarsgård, are outstanding, and the series' unflinching portrayal of Soviet bureaucracy and cover-ups is both educational and deeply moving. It's a near-perfect example of how television can illuminate history.
These HBO series may not be flawless, but they offer captivating drama, top-notch production, and memorable storytelling. Whether you're a fan of crime, fantasy, history, or sci-fi, there's something here worth your time. For more binge-worthy recommendations, check out our picks for Why Jason Momoa's Apple TV+ Series 'See' Is Your Perfect Weekend Binge and Why Apple TV+'s Canceled Thriller 'Suspicion' Is Worth a Binge Watch Now.
