Taking the Helm on His Own Creation
In the second season of Fire Country, Max Thieriot made a significant leap in his creative journey — stepping into the director’s chair for the first time on the show he helped create. Though already an executive producer and co-creator, directing allowed him to shape the series in a deeply personal way.
“It’s one thing to write or act in a scene,” Max shared. “But when you direct it — you’re the one guiding the emotion, the pace, the tension. It’s exhilarating, and terrifying.”
The episode he directed, “A Fair to Remember”, aired mid-season and immediately stood out for its emotional nuance, visual boldness, and restrained intensity.
Preparation Behind the Scenes
Before stepping onto set as director, Max immersed himself in preparation. He worked closely with the episode’s writers and story editors to refine the script. He consulted with the show’s lead cinematographer to pre-visualize key sequences. And he spent extra time with the stunt and safety teams to plan fire scenes down to the second.
Crew members recall that Max arrived with detailed notes, a shot list, and a calm but focused energy.
“He walked on set like he’d been directing for years,” said assistant director Greg Friedman. “But he was also humble enough to ask questions.”
Directing His Co-Stars — and Himself
Perhaps the biggest challenge was directing his own scenes — particularly the emotionally complex interactions between Bode and his father, Vince.
To manage this, Max relied on his director of photography to provide real-time feedback. He also reviewed footage between takes, constantly adjusting his performance and framing. His goal wasn’t perfection, but truth.
Diane Farr said of the experience:
“Max gave us space to find the moment, but he also knew when to push. He sees the scene from every angle — actor, writer, and now director.”
A Director Focused on Humanity
Max’s style behind the camera reflects his acting sensibility — quiet, organic, and character-driven. He prefers long takes, subtle performances, and natural light. He encourages improvisation and trusts his actors to bring unexpected emotion to the scene.
One standout moment from his directorial episode was a near-silent sequence of Bode walking through an abandoned fairground, reflecting on his past. The camera lingered, the score was minimal, and the silence spoke louder than dialogue.
“That moment,” Max said, “was about regret — not words.”
The Response and the Future
The episode was widely praised by critics and fans, with many calling it one of the most powerful of the season. CBS insiders confirmed that Thieriot is expected to direct more episodes in future seasons — and possibly helm episodes of Sheriff Country as well.
For Max, the director’s chair is not a detour — it’s a destination.
“I want to tell stories in every way I can,” he said. “And this is just the beginning.”
