When you think about How the Grinch Stole Christmas! the first image that probably comes to mind is the Grinch himself, the green, grumpy, determined creature who has set out on a mission to ruin Whoville’s Christmas spirit.
But for the legendary animator Chuck Jonesthe real star of the show was a completely different person: Max, the Grinch’s faithful dog.
Jones, who adapted masterfully Dr. Seuss’s classic tale in the beloved 1966 animated television special, saw Max as much more than just comic relief or sidekick. For him, Max was the heart of the story, the character who connected with the audience on an emotional level.
In an interview reflecting on his work, Jones explained his deep attachment to Max, calling him “Max, the reindeer dog” and describing him as “every boy’s dog”. And, really, who can’t relate to Max?
He’s the ultimate underdog, literally. Despite being mistreated, bullied, and burdened (literally) by the Grinch’s plans, Max remains loyal, loving, and quietly heroic.
Jones said, “Ole’ Max, we called him ‘Max, the reindeer dog, because Max represented every boy’s dog. And when he has been treated badly, everything is fine…
One of the greatest dog stories ever written, The Bar Sinister by Richard Harding Davis, and this dog in there said… “I knew he was my master because he was the one who kicked me.”
“And that’s a great description of how good a dog he is, you know? Then, I realized that this dog…represents the audience. And he’s upset, he’s a slave… but he’s also watching, he obviously doesn’t like it. And so, for me, it plays a very important role in the whole film.
Max gives viewers a unique window into the Grinch’s world. While the Grinch’s wickedness is entertaining, it is through Max’s reactions, his tired sighs, his nervous glances, and his moments of quiet rebellion, that we feel the absurdity of the Grinch’s antics.
Max’s perspective in the story keeps her grounded. He is us: the one who sees the madness, endures the chaos, and still hopes for a better outcome.
Despite being strapped to a comically oversized sled and forced to drag it up a mountain, Max remains devoted. He doesn’t react; he doesn’t run away. Instead, he continues to fight, as if hoping to see a glimmer of goodness in the Grinch.
Max is also a catalyst for the Grinch’s redemption. At the end of the story, when the Grinch’s heart grows three sizes, Max is there, faithfully by his side, sharing in the transformation.
His unwavering faith in the Grinch, no matter how out of place it may seem at first, helps soften the Grinch’s heart.
I’ve never seen Max in this light before, so Jones’ comments here allow me to look at this Christmas special that I watch every year in a whole new way. This elevates Max’s role in the story and heightens the emotional core of the character and, knowing this, allows the character to resonate on a deeper level with the audience.
by Joey Paur
Source: Geek Tyrant
Lloyd Grunewald is an author at “The Fashion Vibes”. He is a talented writer who focuses on bringing the latest entertainment-related news to his readers. With a deep understanding of the entertainment industry and a passion for writing, Lloyd delivers engaging articles that keep his readers informed and entertained.
