The Mad Max franchise is a post-apocalyptic saga that has captivated audiences for decades with its adrenaline-fueled action and dystopian landscapes.
With several films under its belt, navigating the series can be daunting for newcomers and fans alike.
As audiences gear up for the release of Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga in May, WHO have rounded up where to start and where to find the films, plus, some essential background information on George Miller’s cinematic universe.
In what order should you watch Mad Max?
The Mad Max franchise offers a nonlinear narrative, but for the best viewing experience, it’s recommended to watch the films in release order:
- Mad Max (1979)
- Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior (1981)
- Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome (1985)
- Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
This order allows viewers to witness the evolution of both the character of Max and the dystopian world he inhabits.
Where to watch the Mad Max Films
Mad Max (1979)
This film introduces audiences to the character of Max Rockatansky, a former police officer navigating a lawless world in the aftermath of societal collapse and is available to stream on Prime Video.
Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior (1981)
Set in a desolate wasteland, this sequel follows Max as he becomes a reluctant hero, aiding a community besieged by marauders.
At this stage, the second instalment of the Mad Max franchise is not available to stream in Australia, but you can rent it through Apple TV or Prime Video for $4.99.
Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome (1985)
In this instalment, Max finds himself entangled with a tribe of children in a settlement ruled by a ruthless dictator known as Aunty Entity. The third film in the franchise is currently available to stream on Binge.
Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
Directed once again by George Miller, this critically acclaimed film thrusts viewers into a high-octane chase across a barren desert, with Max aiding Imperator Furiosa in her quest for freedom.
Mad Max: Fury Road is currently available to stream on Prime Video.
Are all Mad Max movies connected?
While each film in the Mad Max franchise stands alone as a self-contained story, they are all connected by recurring themes, characters, and the post-apocalyptic setting. Max Rockatansky serves as the common thread throughout the series, although Mel Gibson portrays him in the earlier films compared to Tom Hard in Fury Road.
What you need to know before delving into the Mad Max franchise
It’s helpful to understand that the films are set in a post-apocalyptic Australia where society has collapsed, and resources are scarce. Lawlessness reigns, and individuals must fend for themselves in a harsh and unforgiving landscape.
Themes of survival, redemption, and the human spirit persevering against overwhelming odds permeate the series. Expect intense action sequences, visually stunning landscapes, and thought-provoking commentary on the human condition.
The character of Max Rockatansky underpins the whole franchise. He is a former police officer haunted by the loss of his family. Throughout the films, he grapples with his inner demons while navigating the dangerous world around him. Despite his reluctance, he often finds himself thrust into situations where he must act heroically to survive.
How is Furiosa related to Mad Max?
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga serves as both a spin-off and prequel to the 2015 film Mad Max: Fury Road, depicting the origin story of Imperator Furiosa, portrayed by Anya Taylor-Joy. The film follows Furiosa’s journey as she is captured by a Biker Horde led by Warlord Dementus (Chris Hemsworth) and her quest to return home from the harsh wasteland.
Why is Charlize Theron not returning to the role of Furiosa?
Charlize Theron is not reprising her role as Furiosa in the upcoming prequel film due to director George Miller’s decision not to rely on de-aging technology. Despite the actress’ critically acclaimed performance in Mad Max: Fury Road, George opted to cast Anya Taylor-Joy as the younger Furiosa to maintain consistency in the character’s age throughout the film.
Are Charlize Theron and Tom Hardy Friends?
Charlize Theron has been candid about her dislike of her Mad Max: Fury Road co-star, Tom Hardy. And now the 2015 film’s director, George Miller, has weighed in on went down between the very famous actors on the set of the film.
“I’m an optimist, so I saw their behaviour as mirroring their characters, where they had to learn to cooperate in order to ensure mutual survival,” Miller, 79, told The Telegraph in a new interview.
Camera operator Mark Goellnicht claimed in the 2022 book Blood, Sweat & Chrome: The Wild and True Story of Mad Max: Fury Road, that the discord stemmed from Hardy’s tardiness. He claimed on one occasion, Hardy was three hours late to set, which led Theron to ask, “How disrespectful are you?”
Miller, who said Hardy and Theron were “two very different performers”, told The Telegraph, “Tom has a damage to him but also a brilliance that comes with it, and whatever was going on with him at the time, he had to be coaxed out of his trailer. Whereas Charlize was incredibly disciplined … and always the first one on set.”
He added there was “no excuse” for the feud.“I think there’s a tendency in this business to use great performances as an excuse for other disruption that could be avoided,” he said. There’s no love lost between Hardy and Theron.
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga is set to premiere on May 23, 2024.
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