The final season of Stranger Things has returned, and with it, the character Max, played by Sadie Sink, who has captivated audiences since her debut. As the season unfolds, fans learn that Max is in a precarious state, having fallen into a coma at the end of season four. The first four episodes, now streaming on Netflix, reveal her struggles as she navigates the Upside Down, seeking to reclaim her strength against the malevolent Vecna, portrayed by Jamie Campbell Bower.
Max’s Journey Through the Upside Down
Set months after the dramatic events of the previous season, Max’s storyline takes a darker turn. Although she remains in a coma, her spirit is shown to be actively fighting against Vecna, plotting her return with the help of Holly Wheeler, a character introduced this season and played by Nell Fisher. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Sink provided insight into Max’s complex situation, describing her character’s state as “rough” and “feral.”
Sink noted that the anticipation surrounding her character’s fate was less stressful for her compared to the fans. “I knew she would be coming back when we were finishing season four,” she explained. Despite the intense cliffhanger, she received assurances from the creators that Max would play a significant role in the plot’s progression.
During the filming of season five, the atmosphere was markedly different. Sink described the table read for the first four scripts as “intense,” highlighting the pressure she felt as she prepared for her character’s re-emergence. “I was sweating. I thought I was losing control of my voice,” she recalled, emphasizing the emotional weight of her return in episode three.
Exploring New Dynamics
Max’s interactions with Holly present a fresh dynamic, as she forges a bond with the younger character. Sink appreciated the opportunity to explore this relationship, stating, “Max is a really caring person… She sees Holly as an ally.” This new partnership adds depth to Max’s journey, showcasing her growth and resilience in the face of adversity.
Working alongside Fisher, Sink found joy in the collaboration, noting that their scenes together felt like “a little adventure.” She praised Fisher for her intelligence and talent, indicating that their chemistry contributed significantly to the storytelling. This shift from her established relationships with characters like Lucas, Mike, and Eleven allowed Sink to explore different facets of Max’s personality.
Reflecting on the season’s emotional weight, Sink acknowledged that the cast has grown closer. “This season kind of felt like a tribute to these last 10 years we’ve spent together,” she said, hinting at the bittersweet nature of concluding such a beloved series. The looming finality of Stranger Things has encouraged deeper connections among the cast, further enriching their performances.
As the release of the final season unfolds, with Volume 2 scheduled for Christmas and the finale on New Year’s Eve, Sink expressed her mixed feelings about saying goodbye to Max. “I don’t think I really said goodbye to Max yet. I don’t think I ever really will,” she stated, reinforcing the lasting impact the character has had on her life.
With the first part of season five now available, fans are left eager for the upcoming episodes. Sink’s portrayal of Max continues to resonate, leaving viewers to ponder the complexities of her character and the journey that lies ahead.
