WHY STREAMING SERVICE MAX IS BETTING BIG ON FILIPINO VIEWERS

ONE OF THE BIGGEST HIGHLIGHTS OF THE LOCAL entertainment scene in the last quarter of 2024 was the entry of a new streaming service: Max. The platform, operated by Warner Bros. Discovery, brings together iconic brands such as HBO, Harry Potter, Cartoon Network and the DC Universe under one umbrella.

- By Nathalie M. Tomada

Max made its presence felt with a debut unlike any other, spanning seven markets across Asia, including the Philippines. A series of creative and immersive outdoor marketing campaigns showcased its full spectrum of content.

But that's just the beginning. Jason Monteiro, Asia Pacific Streaming Lead for Warner Bros. Discovery, shared what fans can expect from Max this 2025, including the highly-anticipated "Superman" movies.

"We see Max as an exciting new proposition and entertainment destination, of course, in the Philippines, but also throughout Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan," Monteiro told The STAR in an exclusive interview.

"How are we different? At the core of who we are, we are a storytelling company. We look for great stories, we create great stories, and our mission really is to get these stories to as many consumers as possible throughout the world, and that includes Asia.

"We want all of these stories to be enjoyed and consumed by as many people and fans as possible, including Asia."

Monteiro stressed that Max elevates the entertainment landscape by putting in one place franchises like "Harry Potter," DC and "Game of Thrones," alongside evergreen titles like "Friends." It also features unscripted documentaries and reality shows from brands like TLC and HGTV.

On top of that, he added, MAX is also going to be the home of the best blockbuster Hollywood movies.

"So everything from our own studio, Warner Bros. - for example, movies like 'Barbie,' the most successful movie in the history of Warner Bros. - to exciting movies that will come (2025), like the new 'Superman' movies," he said.