Kiwi 13CO, photographer/director, Dan “Maxy” Max is well known for his unwavering passion for storytelling and his keen eye for the real. He combines innate curiosity and consummate technical skill with a flair for building emotion, and is driven by the power to touch others with his work.
Dan Max talks to The Stable about his directing journey.
What inspired your transition from photography to film directing?
Dan “Maxy” Max: My journey into film directing was deeply rooted in my love for photography. The way a single photograph can encapsulate so much stirred my interest in storytelling, leading me to discover film’s profound impact on shaping and perfecting people’s views on various subjects and the human condition. This transition felt natural, evolving from capturing still images to crafting dynamic narratives.
How does your photography background influence your work as a director?
Dan “Maxy” Max: Having a background in photography is like having a secret weapon. It’s given me a sharp eye for detail and a deep appreciation for visual storytelling. As a director, it helps me weave together images and narratives in a way that feels both cohesive and compelling. It’s about using that foundation to foster creativity and collaboration on set.
Film directing has allowed me to draw people together and harness the best out of every creative mind, creating a unified vision with individuals passionate about creativity and narrative exploration. I view my role as a director as fundamentally about storytelling through collaboration.
What drives your exploration of the unknown?
Dan “Maxy” Max: My love for exploration is both a personal passion and a professional drive. The quest for discovery—understanding who we are, where we come from, and our place in the world—guides my filmmaking. This inherent curiosity leads me to seek new experiences, delve into the connection between humans and nature, and incorporate these themes into my films and photography. My hobbies, like surfing, fishing, and camping, are a direct reflection of this exploration and often inspire my work. That and I just love finding those characters that can spin a good yarn over a cold beer.
What aspects of filmmaking do you find most enjoyable and rewarding?
Dan “Maxy” Max: For me, the most thrilling parts of filmmaking are collaboration and narrative development. I love working with other creatives to develop a story from its initial concept to its final form. The process of visual storytelling and diving into the depth of characters and human experiences is what I find most exhilarating. Working with like-minded individuals is what makes it enjoyable.
How do you ensure your films connect with viewers?
Dan “Maxy” Max: Ensuring a connection with viewers is crucial, and I aim to achieve this through emotional, thought-provoking narratives, complemented by subtle humour and wit. I believe these elements significantly enhance a film’s relatability and its impact on the audience.
In your opinion, what defines a successful commercial?
Dan “Maxy” Max: A successful commercial is one that can invoke change and offer a new perspective, closely aligning with the product it promotes. It’s about crafting a narrative that resonates with the audience, encouraging them to view the world differently. Even if seeing the world differently means they need to buy the product, haha.
Can you share some of the greatest creative challenges you’ve faced?
Dan “Maxy” Max: Financial constraints pose one of the greatest challenges, especially when trying to transform a creative vision into something tangible and affordable without compromising its integrity. Overcoming this requires innovation, flexibility, and a dedication to preserving the essence of the creative vision.
What are the benefits of simultaneously being a director and photographer on set?
Dan “Maxy” Max: Assuming dual roles enhances the overall vision and strengthens the connection to all production aspects. It allows for an extra visual eye during production, ensuring the film and photography elements complement each other perfectly. This approach can draw out more emotive imagery that tells a greater story, fitting the photographic campaign into the film scenes effectively. As the director, you are closest to the actors and the heads of department. You can make sure both crafts have time, energy and thought put into them. Plus, it’s a chance to ensure the longevity of the visual campaign, making sure the posters stick with audiences long after the spot airs.
Favourite work of all time? Yours &/or others?
Dan “Maxy” Max: Chloé Zhao’s The Rider, with its blend of visual storytelling and documentary authenticity, has inspired me to seek genuine stories and real people. It’s influenced me to delve deeper into themes of identity, struggle, and the search for purpose, challenging me to explore the boundaries of reality in filmmaking.
Q: Are you excited about working in Australia again?
Dan “Maxy” Max: Definitely! Australia has always been like a second home to me. Returning to Australia feels like coming home. I’m eager to dive back into its vibrant creative scene and draw inspiration from its stunning landscapes and the wonderful people I’ve met there. It’s an environment that always sparks creativity and new ideas.
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