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7 amazing sci-fi shows and movies new on HBO Max in July 2021

“You maniacs! You blew it up!”

by Robin Bea

HBO Max is adding a huge selection of new shows and movies throughout July, including sci-fi classics and major new releases.

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Here are 7 amazing sci-fi shows and movies heading to HBO Max in July 2021.

7. Westworld (1973)

While the Westworld series interrogates ideas of free will and personhood, the movie is a more straight-ahead action affair, elevated by great ‘70s practical effects and Yul Brynner’s performance as a robotic gunslinger.

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6. Planet of the Apes series (1968–1973)

Before Marky Mark landed on the Planet of the Apes, this classic sci-fi series spanned five movies full of creepy masks and loincloths.

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The series runs out of steam toward the end, but with posters like this, how could you not watch them all?

5. Demolition Man (1993)

Demolition Man is corny, high-concept ‘90s action at its peak. If you don’t know what the three seashells are or why Taco Bell constitutes fine dining in 2032, it’s time to check this one out.

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4. Doctor Who Holiday Special: Revolution of the Daleks (2020)

Holiday episodes, in general, may sound old-fashioned and disposable, but Revolution of the Daleks is no Star Wars Holiday Special. It’s a genuinely interesting adventure for the latest Doctor, with real ramifications for the series.

3. Space Jam: A New Legacy (2021)

Space Jam: A New Legacy hits theaters and streaming 25 years after the original. We’ll see if its attempt to reference every Warner Bros. movie in existence pays off when it premieres July 16.

2. Batwoman Season 2 (2021)

The CW’s Batwoman had a rough time after original lead Ruby Rose departed, but Javicia Leslie picked up the cowl and made it her own. The second season swoops over to to HBO Max July 27.

1. The Return of the Living Dead (1985)

Who says the undead can’t be funny? The cult hit Return of the Living Dead is an anarchic battle of punks vs. zombies with plenty of action and gore between the laughs.