The Enigmatic Timeline of Mad Max: Exploring the Society Collapse and Apocalyptic Setting

The Mad Max series, with its thrilling action and stark post-apocalyptic setting, has captivated audiences for decades. However, a puzzling element has always been the timelines and societal collapse depicted in the films. The original 1980 movie shows a world that, on the surface, looks remarkably similar to our own, except for the clothing and the cars. This article delves into the enigmatic timeline of the Mad Max series, exploring the reasons behind the societal collapse and the mythology that surrounds the series.

Confused Timeline and Societal Collapse

The Mad Max series is filled with inconsistencies, especially regarding the timeline and the reasons for societal collapse. In the first film, it seems society is collapsing for unspecified reasons. The second film introduces a post-oil era, while the third film clearly takes place after a nuclear war. The fourth film further complicates the timeline, leading to intriguing fan-theories and explanations. Prominent theories include:

In-Universe Fan-Theories

Max in Fury Road is really the Feral Kid from the second film. This theory suggests that the events in the films are linked through a character reimagined across different timelines.

Max as a Robin-Hood-like figure. Another theory proposes that the Mad Max series is a form of folklore, with events told in different ways over time, becoming mythologized as they are passed down.

Series Evolution Over Time. Some fans theorize that the subsequent films are retellings of the original events, each becoming more mythological as they are recounted.

Practical Explanation

A practical explanation for the timeline inconsistencies comes from George Miller himself. In the original film, the intention was to set it in the present without any post-apocalyptic overtones. However, due to budget constraints and the condition of many sets and cars, Miller decided to retrospectively change the setting to "A FEW YEARS FROM NOW..." with a simple subtitle hinting the collapse of society. This makes the series more relatable and grounded, despite its apocalyptic setting.

In-Universe Explanation

The in-universe explanation is that in the first film, society hasn't fully collapsed, it is merely on the edge of the precipice. Bureaucratic systems and rudimentary versions of order remain, allowing figures like Max to still function as official cops rather than marauding vigilantes. The cityscape still resembles a city in decay rather than a fully collapsed civilization.

Shadows of a Collapsing Society

What we see in the original Mad Max movie is a society that is collapsing but not yet fully collapsed. Places still function like normal, even if the quality of life is deteriorating. The characters lack complete awareness that their society is doomed. They think it’s just a bad patch that will eventually get better. However, in the second film, the society has indeed collapsed, leading to the Mad Max post-apocalyptic universe.

Conclusion

The Mad Max series, with its complex timeline and societal collapse, continues to intrigue and captivate fans. The interweaving of practical filmmaking decisions with in-universe mythology creates a rich narrative landscape. Whether you believe in the tall tales of folklore or the stark realities of a decaying society, the Mad Max series remains a timeless exploration of human survival in a post-apocalyptic world.