when you think How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The first image that comes to mind is probably that of the Grinch himself, the green, grumpy, determined creature who’s on a mission to destroy Whoville’s holiday spirit.
But for legendary animators Chuck JonesThe real star of the show is someone else entirely: Max, the Grinch’s loyal dog.
Jones adapted adroitly Dr. Seuss’s Bringing the classic story to life in the beloved 1966 animated television special, Max is more than just a comedic actor or supporting actor. For him, Max is the heart of the story, the character who connects with the audience on an emotional level.
In an interview looking back on his work, Jones explained his deep attachment to Max, calling him “Max, the reindeer dog” and describing him as “every boy’s dog.” Let’s be honest, who can’t relate to Max?
It is no exaggeration to say that he is the ultimate loser. Despite being abused, bullied, and saddled with the Grinch’s machinations (quite literally), Max remains loyal, lovable, and quietly heroic.
Jones said: “Old Max, we called him ‘Max, the reindeer dog’ because Max represented every boy’s dog. When he was treated badly, that was OK…
One of the greatest dog stories ever told, “The Sinister Bar” by Richard Harding Davis, has a dog who says… “I knew he was my master because he kicked Got me.
“It’s such a great description of dogs, you know? So, I realized that this dog… he represents the audience. He’s frustrated, he’s a slave… but he’s also observing – and he’s clearly not Love that. So he plays a very important role in the whole film for me.
Max provides viewers with a unique window into the world of the Grinch. While the Grinch’s evil deeds are entertaining, we feel the absurdity of the Grinch’s antics through Max’s reactions, his tired sighs, his nervous eyes, and his moments of quiet rebellion.
Max’s point of view in the story keeps it grounded. He is who we are: the people who have witnessed the madness, endured the chaos, and still hope for a better outcome.
Despite being strapped to a comically huge sled and forced to pull it up a mountain, Max remains loyal. He didn’t fight back; he didn’t run away. Instead, he carries on, as if he hopes to see a glimmer of kindness in the Grinch.
Max is also the catalyst for the Grinch’s redemption. At the end of the story, when the Grinch’s heart triples in size, Max is there, faithfully by his side, sharing in this transformation.
His unwavering faith in the Grinch, no matter how misguided it may seem at first, helps soften the Grinch’s own heart.
I’ve never seen Max from this perspective before, so Jones’ comments here allowed me to watch the Christmas special I watch every year in a whole new way. It elevates Max’s role in the story and strengthens the emotional core of the character, and understanding this allows the character to resonate with the audience on a deeper level.
