The Man Will Burn
Traces the evolution of Burning Man, from its anarchic countercultural roots in San Francisco to the 80,000-person desert gathering it has become.
- Metascore64
- 2026-2026
- 1 season
- HBO Max
- Documentary
- TV-MA
Traces the evolution of Burning Man, from its anarchic countercultural roots in San Francisco to the 80,000-person desert gathering it has become.
Season 1 Episode Guide
4 Episodes 2026
Episode 1
The Great Unknown
Thu, Jul 9, 2026 58 mins
Burning Man grows from an anti-establishment group in San Francisco, founded by Larry Harvey in the 1980s, to a multi-million-dollar event with thousands of attendees and the backing of billionaire tech donors. First time "Burners" look forward to the experience, while repeat attendees and organizers prep for the unpredictable as COVID-19 threatens the event.
Episode 2
Welcome to the Shit Show
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 59 mins
Burning Man is canceled for the second year in a row. A renegade group of "Burners" hold their own event in the desert, and, to many, the Renegade Burn feels like a return to the event's origins, and exposes complex dynamics within the leadership.
Episode 3
Waking Dreams
Thu, Jul 23, 2026 58 mins
Burning Man is back in full force with the musicians, singers, and artists that create and run the spectacular art installations. A growing unease resurges among the creatives who fear that the advent of social media influencers and the influx of tech money threaten the original philosophy of the Burning Man community spirit.
Episode 4
Mud Burn
Thu, Jul 30, 2026 57 mins
Burning Man is threatened by days of rain and chaos. Many attendees flee the muddy terrain as the government steps in to ensure attendees stay safe.