The Mad Max documentary: A look behind the scenes of the cult film!

The Mad Max documentary: A look behind the scenes of the cult film!

The “Mad Max” saga has had a significant impact on apocalyptic cinema since its first appearance in 1979. It all started with the iconic film “Mad Max,” in which Australian Mel Gibson plays the lead role. With this, George Miller and Byron Kennedy set an example in independent cinema, even if the first film was not initially showered with praise by critics. Nevertheless, it became a cult film and heralded a whole series of sequels, including “Mad Max II – The Executor” and “Mad Max – Beyond the Thunderdome”.

Today, June 29, 2025, cinema fans can look forward to the broadcast of the documentary “Action, Sand and End Times: The Mad Max Saga”. The film will be shown on Arte at 10:40 p.m. and provides exciting insights into the making of the first film. The fascination that the saga still exudes today is impressively illuminated with archive recordings and interviews. “Radioguetersloh” notes that Miller himself worked as a doctor in the emergency services before filming in order to gather authentic inspiration for the numerous car accidents and violent scenes.

A look behind the scenes

The documentary not only offers an intensive look at the 1979 film, but also shows private photos, home movie videos and interviews with those responsible. A highlight are the insightful conversations that address the creative challenges and the impressive production process with a very limited budget. According to critics of "Madness of Max", the documentary is informative and is praised by viewers who appreciate the depth of detail.

Additionally, it should be noted that while the length of the documentary may be a bit challenging for some viewers, the comprehensive insights into the relationships between the cast and crew make it undeniably worthwhile. According to some voices, fans of the saga should definitely not miss this documentary as a must-watch.

The continuation of the saga

After the release of Mad Max in 1985, Miller retired for a while and made other films, including Lorenzo's Oil and Happy Feet. The franchise experienced a comeback in 2015 with “Mad Max: Fury Road,” in which Tom Hardy took on the role of Max Rockatansky. This film also introduced the character of Furiosa, portrayed by Charlize Theron. The film “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” has been announced for 2024, in which Anya Taylor-Joy will play the leading role. Hardy will only appear in a brief appearance as Max in “Furiosa”.

Julien Dupuy's documentary really makes you want to watch the films and brings back memories of the unforgettable adventures in the end times. For fans and newcomers alike, it offers an exciting opportunity to learn more about the roots of one of the most defining film franchises of our time.