Max Malanaphy, who appeared on season seven of RuPaul's Drag Race, is a self-described "Tarantino bitch in the making" in his forthcoming online action series, Agent Max. Created in collaboration with Minneapolis-based director John Mark, the three-part project aims to subvert masculine casting norms in mainstream cinema by introducing a rare, queer Bond-like protagonist.
"The role of an action star, the fight choreography, auto-drifting, athleticism and tough mental constitution, for whatever reason, appear to be an overtly masculine trade," John Mark said. "However, if you live in the real world, you'll meet many a gay man who is fully capable of the violence, tenacity and drive it takes to play a hero vigilante."
The queer director said he first proposed the concept in August 2016 to Malanaphy, who was looking for an on-screen opportunity to be "an agent of justice, and of creation." Together, they began embarking on 12-hour shoot days, where the RuPaul alumnus was filmed kicking ass in full mug to introduce a new kind of hero. "You'll laugh, you'll cry, and hopefully, ask for more," John Mark said of the series.
The first episode of Agent Max will release online Saturday, March 11 on YouTube. Watch the official trailer, below.
