Max Records Bio
Max Records is an American actor born on June 18, 1997, in Portland, Oregon. He is best known for his breakout performance as Max in the 2009 film adaptation of Maurice Sendak’s beloved children’s book Where the Wild Things Are. Records was personally selected by director Spike Jonze for the iconic role, which earned him the 2009 Young Artist Award for Best Leading Young Actor in a Feature Film. His natural screen presence and emotional depth as a child actor brought the character of Max to life for a new generation of viewers.
Throughout his career, Records has demonstrated versatility across independent and studio films. His filmography includes diverse roles ranging from family entertainment to darker psychological dramas. Though his acting career spanned from 2006 to 2016, Records left a lasting impression on audiences with his memorable performances. He appeared in various television projects as well, including a guest appearance on The Tonight Show. His work has been recognized by critics and award bodies alike.
Early Life and Background
Max Records was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, in the United States. He is the son of Shawn Records, a photographer, and Jenny Records, a librarian. His father’s work in photography would later play an unexpected role in launching Max’s acting career. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Records was exposed to a creative environment through his parents’ artistic professions. His family background provided him with an early appreciation for visual arts and storytelling.
Records attended Metropolitan Learning Center, a public K-12 school in Portland, for most of his childhood education. He later transferred to Trillium Charter School to complete his high school years. His educational path allowed him to balance his academic pursuits with his emerging acting career. During his school years, Records developed an interest in performance that would eventually lead him to professional acting opportunities.
Path to Actor
Max Records’ journey into acting began when his father, Shawn Records, was asked to submit information about actors who fit a specific physical description for an upcoming film project. As a photographer familiar with casting needs, Shawn provided details about various young actors, including his own son. This fortuitous connection led to Max being considered for the role that would define his early career. His natural talent and suitability for the part became apparent during the casting process.
Before landing his breakthrough film role, Records appeared in a music video for the indie rock band Death Cab for Cutie. This early on-screen experience helped prepare him for the demands of film acting. His performance caught the attention of director Spike Jonze, who personally hired him for the lead role in Where the Wild Things Are. This opportunity marked the beginning of Records’ professional acting career at a young age.
Max Records Career
Early Career (2006-2008)
Max Records began his professional acting journey in 2006 with early projects that established his presence in the entertainment industry. His first significant film role came in 2008 with The Brothers Bloom, where he played the character Young Stephen. This film, directed by Rian Johnson, allowed Records to work alongside established actors and gain valuable experience on a major film set. His performance as the younger version of a main character demonstrated his ability to portray complex emotions despite his young age.
The early phase of Records’ career set the foundation for his subsequent success. His work in The Brothers Bloom showcased his potential as a child actor capable of handling nuanced roles. These formative years helped him develop the skills and confidence needed for the larger role that would come next. Industry professionals took notice of his talent, leading to more significant opportunities in feature films.
Breakthrough (2009-2016)
Max Records achieved widespread recognition with his starring role as Max in Spike Jonze’s Where the Wild Things Are, released in 2009. The film was an adaptation of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak and required Records to carry the emotional weight of the story. His performance captured the imagination and vulnerability of the character, earning critical praise from reviewers worldwide. This role cemented Records’ status as a promising young actor in Hollywood and introduced him to international audiences.
Following the success of Where the Wild Things Are, Records continued to build his filmography with diverse roles. In 2011, he appeared in The Sitter, playing the character Slater Pedulla alongside Jonah Hill. This comedy demonstrated Records’ ability to transition from dramatic roles to lighter, comedic performances. His casting in the film showed that he could adapt to different genres and work well within ensemble casts. The film further expanded his visibility in the industry.
One of Records’ most significant later roles came in 2016 with I Am Not a Serial Killer, where he starred as John Wayne Cleaver. He co-starred with veteran actor Christopher Lloyd in this psychological thriller based on Dan Wells’ novel. Rolling Stone described his character as a homicidal Midwestern teen who must kill a mass murderer to prevent becoming one himself. The film, shot in 2015 and released in early 2016, received positive reviews and highlighted Records’ growth as an actor capable of handling mature, complex material.
Notable Works and Milestones
Max Records’ most celebrated work remains Where the Wild Things Are, which earned him the Young Artist Award for Best Leading Young Actor in a Feature Film in 2009. This award recognized his outstanding performance in a leading role at a young age. His work in I Am Not a Serial Killer represented another milestone, showcasing his ability to portray psychologically complex characters in independent cinema. The positive reception of this film demonstrated his evolution beyond child roles into more nuanced dramatic work.
Max Records Award Nominations
Throughout his acting career, Max Records received recognition from industry award bodies. His most notable nomination came from the Young Artist Awards, which honor outstanding performances by young actors in film and television. Records was nominated for Best Leading Young Actor in a Feature Film for his performance in Where the Wild Things Are. This nomination placed him among the most promising young talents in Hollywood during the late 2000s.
Max Records Awards Won
Max Records won the Young Artist Award for Best Leading Young Actor in a Feature Film in 2009 for his portrayal of Max in Where the Wild Things Are. This award recognized his exceptional performance as the lead character in Spike Jonze’s acclaimed film adaptation. The Young Artist Awards specifically celebrate the achievements of young performers, making this win particularly significant for Records’ early career. It remains the most prominent award of his acting tenure.
| Award | Wins | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Young Artist Award | Best Leading Young Actor in a Feature Film | 2009 |
Max Records Family
Max Records comes from a family with strong artistic connections. His father, Shawn Records, is a professional photographer whose work unexpectedly helped launch Max’s acting career. His mother, Jenny Records, works as a librarian, contributing to the family’s intellectual and creative environment. Records’ parents supported his early interest in acting while ensuring he maintained a balanced childhood education. The family relocated and made adjustments to accommodate Max’s filming schedules during his early career years.