If you’re a fan of a slow-burn romcom or a classic enemies-to-lovers, we can guarantee that Maxton Hall: The World Between Us is going to become your latest streaming obsession.
Set within the grounds of one of Germany’s most prestigious private schools, the series introduces us to Maxton Hall’s wealthy it-boy James Beaufort and studious go-getter Ruby Bell, who, after witnessing one of the Beaufort family’s newest scandals, quickly finds herself with a new title of James’ number one nemesis.
While their relationship may be an unconventional one, the series’ stars Damian Hardung and Harriet Herbig-Matten tell WHO that their journey to finding one another was interwoven with their characters discovering themselves.
“I feel like it’s such a beautiful journey of coming of age and figuring out what you’re destined to do on this planet in this short time, and [James is] so grateful for having that help from Ruby,” Damian shared.
In stark contrast to the typical narratives of contemporary teenage romances, James and Ruby’s newfound relationship is not defined by their pursuit of everlasting love, but by the relentless tug-of-war between dominance and vulnerability.
“I mean, ego and pride are like second nature to James Beaufort. He comes into a room and thinks everything was made for him,” said Damian, adding, “It’s a huge part of him actually acknowledging that there’s a whole world out there that he doesn’t know, and that comes in the form of Ruby.”
Reflecting on Ruby’s unlikely bond with James, Harriet told WHO, “I think the special part of this love story is that she is falling in love with his emotional and broken side and not with his narcissistic and arrogant part, and so that’s why it’s not a toxic relationship.”
As James and Ruby continue to confront the sudden intensity of their emotions, Damian and Harriet believe that their character’s romance proved not only to change their perspective of one another, but also of the world around them.
“Ruby already had a dream that she wants to go to Oxford [University] and she’s very anxious about it. She’s a real fighter and kind of a nerd, but she already knew what she wanted to do… She’s continuing to fight for her dream,” Harriet shared.
“For James, it’s obvious. He’s trying to emancipate himself from his family through Ruby, so just seeing there’s a world where he can actually allow himself to have his own dreams and allow himself to design his own future, which was never really out there for him,” reflected Damian.
For Harriet, Ruby’s steadfast commitment to venture beyond the lavish corridors of Maxton Hall may be seen by many of her peers as a limitation, however, her ability to look beyond her horizons is equally one of her greatest strengths.
“I think the strongest thing is to show emotions and to be honest with your emotions,” she shared, adding, “I think it’s really interesting the inner conflict she has with him while she’s falling in love with a guy she thought she would hate.”
Despite James Beaufort’s reputation placing him as no more than an arrogant, entitled heir, Damian hopes that his journey of self-discovery serves as a poignant inspiration to stay true to oneself.
“He’s such a complicated, troubled, toxic character who deep down really wants to be loved for who he is.”
“It’s worth it to open up. If you could take away that laying out your weaknesses actually helps you more, I think that’s a strong message.”
Where to watch Maxton Hall: The World Between Us
Maxton Hall: The World Between Us season oneis available to stream exclusively on Prime Video.
Season two has also been confirmed, with Damian and Harriet returning in the lead roles of James and Ruby. A release date is yet to be announced but it will be available to stream on Prime Video.
Stream Maxton Hall: The World Between Us on Prime Video from $9.99/month with a 30-day free trial. Subscribe here.
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