The team behind Yash‘s “Toxic – A Fairytale for Grown-Ups” has revealed the first look at Tara Sutaria as Rebecca, continuing a series of character unveilings that have amplified anticipation for the 2026 theatrical release.
Following reveals of Kiara Advani as Nadia, Huma Qureshi as Elizabeth and Nayanthara as Ganga, the poster introduces Sutaria’s character as a figure combining fragility with underlying strength. The image presents Rebecca in an unraveled state, suggesting a character navigating vulnerability while maintaining an instinct for authority and survival.
Sutaria made her film debut with “Student of the Year 2” in 2019, winning the Zee Cine Award for Best Female Debut. Her subsequent work has included action films “Marjaavaan,” “Heropanti 2” and “Ek Villain Returns,” alongside the survival thriller “Apurva” in 2023, which critics noted offered her expanded dramatic range. “Toxic” marks her first pan-India production.
Yash, the Kannada-language film industry actor who rose to pan-Indian stardom with the “K.G.F” franchise, has become one of the most sought-after stars in Indian cinema. Known for his portrayal of Rocky Bhai in “K.G.F: Chapter 1” (2018) and “K.G.F: Chapter 2” (2022) Yash’s transformation into a larger-than-life action hero propelled the films to unprecedented box-office success, breaking language barriers. The second instalment in the franchise is the fifth highest Indian grosser of all time. While the “K.G.F” series cemented his star power, Yash’s early career in Kannada-language films showcased his versatility, with notable performances in projects such as “Mr. and Mrs. Ramachari” (2014) and “Googly” (2013).
“Toxic” is helmed by festival circuit darling Geetu Mohandas (“Moothon”). The ambitious project represents a watershed moment for Kannada cinema, which has been steadily gaining international traction following the “K.G.F” phenomenon. Written by Yash and Mohandas, “Toxic” is breaking new ground as the first major Indian film conceptualized, written and shot simultaneously in both the Kannada and English languages – with dubbed versions planned for Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and additional languages.
“I’ve always felt an instinctive love to protect Tara. Perhaps because she is a guarded soul or perhaps it’s the armor she’s comfortable with. And perhaps it doesn’t need to be defined,” said Mohandas. “I realized early on that the best way to reach her was not by pushing, not by demanding more, but by allowing her the space to simply be. That choice shaped our equation which turned out calm, deeply professional, and perfectly aligned. She observed more than she spoke. She listened more than she revealed. And I often wondered if I should guide her more closely. But in her silence, something powerful was brewing. When she finally stepped into her performance, what emerged was nothing short of breathtaking which is born from an inner understanding she carried all along. She surprised me completely, and in the most beautiful way. I have no doubt she will surprise everyone else too.”
The production has assembled a notable technical crew including Indian National Film Award-winning cinematographer Rajeev Ravi, composer Ravi Basrur, editor Ujwal Kulkarni and production designer T.P. Abid. Action sequences have been choreographed by Hollywood’s J.J. Perry, known for his work on “John Wick,” alongside Indian National Film Award-winning duo Anbariv and Kecha Khamphakdee.
Written by Yash and Mohandas, “Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups” has been shot simultaneously in Kannada and English, with dubbed versions planned for Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and additional languages.
The production features National Award-winning cinematographer Rajeev Ravi, composer Ravi Basrur, editor Ujwal Kulkarni and production designer TP Abid. Action choreography comes from Hollywood’s JJ Perry, known for his work on “John Wick,” alongside National Award-winning duo Anbariv and Kecha Khamphakdee.
Produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Yash through KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations, “Toxic – A Fairytale for Grown-Ups” is scheduled for theatrical release March 19, 2026, capitalizing on the extended holiday weekend that encompasses Eid, Ugadi and Gudi Padwa celebrations.
DISCLAIMER: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. MARSHALL, Tx. (KTAL/KMSS) – A Marshall man has been arrested after allegedly shooting at several individuals. Around 8:30 p.m. on December 22, 2025, police were called to the 700 block of N. Loop 390 Highway following reports of gunshots in the area. Upon arrival, officers spoke […]
How do you shake off the cobwebs when the ski season starts? I tend to make a few groomer laps. Then, after getting my ski boots under me, I might start venturing into tougher terrain.
That approach, I assume, will look similar to most skiers. Isaac Kaufman, however, prefers the equivalent of a quadruple shot espresso—mixed with a bit of Monster energy, for good measure.
Only days after Palisades Tahoe, California, received enough snow to open its upper mountain, Kaufman ventured to McConkey’s, a feared line visible from the famous KT-22 lift. The rocks and the thin snow cover didn’t bother him, apparently, and he launched a front-flip to get back to solid ground.
Tap or click to watch Kaufman’s stunt below.
The 2026 POWDER Photo Annual is here! Look for a print copy on a newsstand near you, or click here to have a copy shipped directly to your front door.
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McConkey’s is one of those lines.
It’s wickedly steep and leaves little more room for error, living in similar territory as Jackson Hole’s Corbet’s Couloir or Whistler Blackcomb’s Air Jordan. All three lines are blockbusters and regularly draw skiers looking to test their mettle. As its name implies, McConkey’s was named for the legendary skier Shane McConkey, who passed away in 2009. Previously, the line was called Eagle’s Nest.
That brings us to Kaufman’s latest venture. McConkey’s is, by most measures, better suited for late-season endeavors. By then, the snow will have piled up, covering some of the rocks that pepper the steep slope. That hardly makes McConkey’s easy, but a bit more coverage never hurts.
The alternative, as Kaufman’s video shows, is dodging geographic formations that, given the chance, would gladly put a hole through your skis. His frontflip—which had a near vertical takeoff, mind you—is the cherry on top. He found what might be the most hellacious run at Palisades Tahoe right now, and went for it, scoring some bonus points for air and style.
What a way to ring in the season. Personally, though, I’ll be sticking to the groomers and low-angle powder for a bit longer.
Related: How to Enter the 4FRNT X POWDER Devastator Giveaway
The team behind Yash‘s highly anticipated “Toxic – A Fairytale for Grown-Ups” has revealed the first look at Nayanthara as Ganga, presenting the actress in a role that combines visual intensity with a commanding presence.
The poster positions Nayanthara in front of an ornate casino entrance, weapon in hand, projecting controlled power within a high-stakes luxury environment. The image marks a departure for the actor, suggesting a character defined by calculated authority rather than conventional heroism.
Nayanthara has established herself as one of India’s most acclaimed actor over a two-decade career spanning more than 75 films across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada-language cinema. Her filmography includes women-centric successes like “Aramm,” “Kolamaavu Kokila” and “Netrikann,” alongside Shah Rukh Khan’s blockbuster “Jawan.”
Yash, the Kannada-language film industry actor who rose to pan-Indian stardom with the “K.G.F” franchise, has become one of the most sought-after stars in Indian cinema. Known for his portrayal of Rocky Bhai in “K.G.F: Chapter 1” (2018) and “K.G.F: Chapter 2” (2022) Yash’s transformation into a larger-than-life action hero propelled the films to unprecedented box-office success, breaking language barriers. The second instalment in the franchise is the fifth highest Indian grosser of all time. While the “K.G.F” series cemented his star power, Yash’s early career in Kannada-language films showcased his versatility, with notable performances in projects such as “Mr. and Mrs. Ramachari” (2014) and “Googly” (2013).
“Toxic” is helmed by festival circuit darling Geetu Mohandas (“Moothon”). The ambitious project represents a watershed moment for Kannada cinema, which has been steadily gaining international traction following the “K.G.F” phenomenon. Written by Yash and Mohandas, “Toxic” is breaking new ground as the first major Indian film conceptualized, written and shot simultaneously in both the Kannada and English languages – with dubbed versions planned for Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and additional languages.
“We all know Nayan as a celebrated star with a commanding screen presence, and a remarkable career spanning two decades but in ‘Toxic,’ audiences will witness a talent that had been quietly waiting to explode,” said director Geetu Mohandas. “I wanted to portray Nayan in a way that she’s never been showcased before. But as the shoot progressed I began to see how closely her own personality echoed the soul of the character. It wasn’t imitation, it was alignment. The depth, the honesty, the restraint, and the emotional clarity she brought were not performances layered on top of the character, they were qualities she already possessed. I found my Ganga, so brilliantly performed by her, and even more unexpectedly, I found a dear friend.”
The reveal follows previous character unveilings for the production, including Kiara Advani as Nadia and Huma Qureshi as Elizabeth, each presenting distinct visual aesthetics within the film’s narrative world.
The production has assembled a notable technical crew including Indian National Film Award-winning cinematographer Rajeev Ravi, composer Ravi Basrur, editor Ujwal Kulkarni and production designer T.P. Abid. Action sequences have been choreographed by Hollywood’s J.J. Perry, known for his work on “John Wick,” alongside Indian National Film Award-winning duo Anbariv and Kecha Khamphakdee.
Produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Yash through KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations, “Toxic – A Fairytale for Grown-Ups” is scheduled for theatrical release March 19, 2026, capitalizing on the extended holiday weekend that encompasses Eid, Ugadi and Gudi Padwa celebrations.
The name says it all. The Devastator has earned its place as a 4FRNT icon for its ability to destroy any terrain in sight. Its signature multi-radius rocker profile lets you surf powder with ease, pivot through tight terrain, and slash with precision. This modern freeride design enables the sidecut geometry to work in unison with the pre-bent rocker shape, giving you feeling of camber in firmer conditions. With explosive pop, a light swing weight, and unwavering stability, the Devastator is a true freeride weapon—built to dominate in every condition, on every run.
2026 4FRNT Devastators
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This season, the Devastator comes with this bold graphic by Evangeline Gallagher.
POWDER Magazine
Haven’t you heard? POWDER Magazine is back in print once again with an all-new Photo Annual Issue for 2026. Let the pages of an actual print magazine transport you from the slopes of Mammoth Mountain to Vermont’s Green Mountains, from watching ski ballet to watching ski films that take your breath away.
Related: The Story of How Matt Sterbenz Started 4FRNT Skis (Video)
The filmmakers behind Yash‘s highly anticipated “Toxic – A Fairytale for Grown-Ups” have revealed the first look at Huma Qureshi as Elizabeth, unveiling a character that blends old-world glamour with unsettling gothic menace.
The newly released image captures Qureshi against a cemetery backdrop, her character positioned next to a classic black automobile. Her costume features a dramatic black gown with exposed shoulders and striking sleeve design, presenting a character whose refined appearance masks darker undertones. The funereal location and subdued color palette hint at a figure whose influence derives from composure and sophistication rather than explicit aggression.
Qureshi has built a formidable reputation across film and streaming platforms through acclaimed performances in Anurag Kashyap’s crime drama “Gangs of Wasseypur,” the black comedy “Dedh Ishqiya,” and revenge thriller “Badlapur.” Her work in streaming series includes the dystopian Netflix drama “Leila” and the SonyLIV political thriller “Maharani,” for which she received a Filmfare OTT Award. She was most recently in Season 3 of Netflix series “Delhi Crime” and the lead in Bikas Ranjan Mishra’s film “Bayaan,” which bowed at the Toronto Film Festival.
Yash, the Kannada-language film industry actor who rose to pan-Indian stardom with the “K.G.F” franchise, has become one of the most sought-after stars in Indian cinema. Known for his portrayal of Rocky Bhai in “K.G.F: Chapter 1” (2018) and “K.G.F: Chapter 2” (2022) Yash’s transformation into a larger-than-life action hero propelled the films to unprecedented box-office success, breaking language barriers. The second instalment in the franchise is the fifth highest Indian grosser of all time. While the “K.G.F” series cemented his star power, Yash’s early career in Kannada-language films showcased his versatility, with notable performances in projects such as “Mr. and Mrs. Ramachari” (2014) and “Googly” (2013).
“Toxic” is helmed by festival circuit darling Geetu Mohandas (“Moothon”). The ambitious project represents a watershed moment for Kannada cinema, which has been steadily gaining international traction following the “K.G.F” phenomenon. Written by Yash and Mohandas, “Toxic” is breaking new ground as the first major Indian film conceptualized, written and shot simultaneously in both the Kannada and English languages – with dubbed versions planned for Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and additional languages.
“Casting for this role was perhaps the trickiest,” said director Geetu Mohandas. “The character demanded a performer with high octane caliber and an undeniable presence. From the moment Huma entered my frame, I witnessed that she possessed something rare. She carried an effortless sophistication and intensity that immediately brought the character of Elizabeth alive for me. Huma is an actor who questions, probes, and challenges the artistic interpretation of a role and that dialogue became an essential part of our creative journey. She has always been known as a powerhouse of talent, but this performance will mark as a turning point for the arrival of an undeniable, commanding new presence on celluloid.”
The first look at Kiara Advani‘s character Nadia was unveiled recently.
The production has assembled a notable technical crew including Indian National Film Award-winning cinematographer Rajeev Ravi, composer Ravi Basrur, editor Ujwal Kulkarni and production designer T.P. Abid. Action sequences have been choreographed by Hollywood’s J.J. Perry, known for his work on “John Wick,” alongside Indian National Film Award-winning duo Anbariv and Kecha Khamphakdee.
Produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Yash through KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations, “Toxic – A Fairytale for Grown-Ups” is scheduled for theatrical release March 19, 2026, capitalizing on the extended holiday weekend that encompasses Eid, Ugadi and Gudi Padwa celebrations.
We hope you’re reading this article in between laps, but if not, know that the majority of the POWDER staff isn’t skiing either.
Mother Nature has cursed our locales with a wet and warm start to the season, but the tides appear to be turning. Here’s hoping we’re skiing by New Year’s…
In the meantime, I’ve asked each member of the POWDER staff to write a short story or recall a fond memory related to the Holiday season. I gave them carte blanche, and they delivered.
Without further ado, enjoy these holiday stories from POWDER writers Ian Greenwood and Izzy Lidsky, social media producer Beny Huckaby, and yours truly.
Happy Holidays, friends!
The 2026 POWDER Photo Annual is here! Look for a print copy on a newsstand near you, or click here to have a copy shipped directly to your front door.
I snapped this photo on Christmas morning of 2013 and posted to Instagram with the following caption: “SORRY FOR POSTING A PICTURE OF WHAT I GOT FOR CHRISTMAS BUT IM FREAKING OUT I LOVE MY NEW SKIS!!!!!”
The Best Christmas Present(s) Ever.
By: Matt Lorelli, Senior Editor, POWDER
As I rolled over to look at the neon-green numbers of my bedside alarm clock (I didn’t have a smartphone quite yet), I smiled. “6:12 a.m.? That’s late enough.”
Popping out of bed with the teenage limberness I now yearn for, I opened my bedroom door to a dark and quiet house. I could smell the delightful scent of the 11-foot Christmas tree that stood tall in the first-floor family room, presents now loaded underneath it, I presumed.
It was Christmas morning, and as usual, I was the first one awake in the house.
I walked downstairs, but before letting the family dogs out for their morning routine, I stole a glimpse of the gifts wrapped under the tree. My eyes were immediately drawn to the two long planks leaning against the wall adjacent to the tree. They were sandwiched together and perfectly wrapped in Santa Claus wrapping paper. Skis. Oh my god. Skis.
My Mom has a strict rule that all presents must be opened with the entire family in the room. Remembering this, but also floored with excitement, I walked over to the skis, picked them up ever so carefully, and then placed them back down. I noticed a gift tag attached to the wrapping paper.
“To: Matthew From: Mom + Dad We hope you enjoy these in Utah!”
“Utah? We’re going to Vermont next week, not Utah,” I whispered to myself.
Confused, excited, and worried that I would get caught looking at presents before I was supposed to, I ran out of the family room. I let the dogs out, came back inside the house, and then…waited.
For two hours, I waited. When my parents and brother finally came downstairs, I sprinted into the living room, tore open the skis, and practically exploded with joy. A brand new pair of Salomon Shogun 182s. A dream come true.
Laughing, my Mom asked, “You saw those before you were supposed to, didn’t you?”
“Yes,” I admitted, “But what’s this about Utah? I thought we were going to Vermont next week for our ski trip.”
“Santa doesn’t come to this house anymore,” my Dad chimed in, “But that doesn’t mean your parents don’t have some tricks up their sleeves.”
Reaching over to me, my Dad handed me plane tickets to Salt Lake City that were scheduled to leave the next day.
“Merry Christmas. You ready to ski some Utah powder on those new skis?”
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, friends. Be safe, have fun, and consider giving a loved one a pair of skis for a Holiday present. Who knows, it might change their life forever.
GMVozd/Getty Images
Christmas Goose
By: Ian Greenwood, Writer, POWDER
For as long as I can remember, my dad’s cooked his “famous” Christmas goose. I call it famous because to our family, and the 20 or so Christmas regulars we invite to our house each winter, it’s a recurring staple. Without the goose, there is no Christmas in the Greenwood household.
Is it good fame? Or infamy? I haven’t interviewed everyone who’s tried the goose for this tidbit, so really, who knows? I like it. I’m also biased. It’s my dad’s thing, and I’ll always support my dad. He could mix Hamburger Helper with cranberry sauce and mayonnaise, and I’d happily pass off the resulting gruel as a secret family recipe.
Anyways, one year, in my early adulthood, I finally got recruited to help him cook. It was time to pass the torch, marking a pivotal moment. I imagined that someday, in the distant future, I’d teach my kids the same arcane techniques. I paid close attention as my dad ran through the weathered recipe. But before stringing the bird or coating its skin with salt and pepper, we had some preparation to attend to. That included sharpening knives. This is not a red herring.
Carefully, I started slicing an onion for the stock. Well, maybe I wasn’t being careful, or I got distracted. Either way, the knife, glancing off the onion’s exterior, slid down towards my finger, which was perched like a juicy, vulnerable sausage on the cutting board. Metal met skin, and a tidy chunk of my index finger got separated.
It hurt, I think. Surprise injuries have a funny way of blurring your senses. Blood welled up on the tip of my finger. My mom and I raced to the hospital, where, using chemicals, a doctor cauterized the wound. This part definitely felt bad, as my shock had worn off. So did the throbbing in my finger, which persisted for days afterward. Mostly, though, my ego stung. A goose and an onion had defeated me. This didn’t bode well for the future of the Greenwood mantle.
And that’s why the tip of my finger is flat on one side. I hope, rather than visiting the ER this Christmas as I did, that you go skiing. Unintended body modifications aren’t a great gift. Powder turns are much better.
P.S.
The goose lives on. I’ve since helped cook it without losing any digits.
Roberto Ricciuti/Redferns via Getty Images
Gin n’ Juice in Casper, Wyoming
By: Izzy Lidsky, Writer, POWDER
Sometime during the pandemic when I was still living in Colorado, I’d found a tattoo artist in Denver who did intricate, handpoked tattoos that I was quickly obsessed with. I emailed her when her books opened in hopes of snagging one of her very coveted tattoo spots, but without much optimism that I’d actually get one. Alas, I heard nothing, and eventually gave up on the idea of getting a piece from her.
More than two years later, well after I’d moved to Jackson, I got an email saying I’d been taken off her waitlist and asking when I would like to schedule a tattoo appointment. Shocked, I responded and said I could likely make it to Denver before Christmas, and figured I’d make a trip out of it to see my family for the holidays. So, three days before Christmas, and in the very worst snowstorm of the year, my partner at the time and I packed up my truck and headed out at dawn.
Despite the sideways blowing snow that greeted us driving through Grand Teton National Park, only minutes into our journey, we pressed on, hoping that we’d be able to lose the storm as we got closer to Colorado. Unfortunately, the weather had other plans, and as we arrived in Capser, Wyoming, some four hours later, the only highway in and out of town closed. Officially thwarted, we pulled over at a gas station to find a place to stay for the night.
The first hotel we called had one room left and was happy to book it for us. When we inquired about their limited vacancy and asked if it was due to the roads, the receptionist responded, “It’s because Snoop Dogg’s in town tonight!”
Several hours later, we found ourselves enjoying the water slide and hot tub at our hotel and were newly in possession of tickets to see Snoop Dogg that night. We enjoyed a hearty meal at the local Texas Roadhouse, complete with a fishbowl margarita. It was -22 degrees outside.
The night brought us to Casper’s massive stadium-style venue, where, alongside a girl in a full Grinch costume, we saw Warren G, the Ying Yang Twins, T-Pain, and Snoop Dogg’s Holidaze of Blaze tour. Complete with a live band, strippers, and Snoop smoking some very illegal weed in Wyoming, it was a dream come true. We bought my Mom a t-shirt and considered it a success.
The next morning, we woke up before dawn to continue our drive. Less than an hour in, I had my partner pull over so I could puke up the night before’s Texas Roadhouse and watch it freeze on the way out of my mouth in -32 degree temps.
At long last, we arrived at the tattoo parlor, and three hours later, I walked out with a tattoo of two dancing skeletons that I affectionately named Snoop Dogg and T-Pain, and knowing it was a Christmas I’d never forget.
	Adie Bush
Yellow Christmas
By: Beny Huckaby, Social Media Producer, POWDER Nothing screams holiday spirit like pissing your pants. Here’s the story of my first holiday ski trip to Vermont.
It took me a while to realize it, but I actually grew up in a bit of a bubble when it came to ski terrain. What made me realize? The first and only time I peed my pants while skiing.
Growing up in one of the country’s lake-effect machines in central/upstate New York, I was used to relatively consistent snowfall, storm skiing, and the occasional champagne-powder day, but it came with a catch—short runs. My local ski hills had one or two lifts, and if you straight-lined from the top, you’d be back at the bottom in under five minutes.
So, when my family went on a Christmas-time trip to an expansive ski resort in Vermont, the size of the mountains caught me a bit off guard.
While lapping Sugarbush with my family and friends, I started fighting the urge to pee. My FOMO won. I stuck with the group. Eventually, as a fiercely impatient yet fiercely independent fourth grader, I decided I’d split off, meet my family at the base, and bomb it to a bathroom as fast as humanly possible.
I remember speed-tucking down the mountain, using every ounce of energy I had to hold it in, when a horrifying realization set in: how could a full-speed run still take fifteen minutes?
By the time I reached the bottom, I was in full panic mode. I’d been told the bathrooms were in a yurt, so I skied directly to the first one I saw. I popped my skis off and sprinted inside, only to discover it was a ski demo tent. The actual bathroom yurt was about seventy-five yards away.
I ran back outside and began trudging through soft snow in my kid-sized, size-four ski boots. Already furious with my impatience and general incompetence, I finally gave up. I remember the feeling vividly: warm pee rolling down my snowpants and into my boots.
I was usually a pretty tough kid, but when my family arrived, I was devastated. I skied back to the condo with my dad and immediately took a recovery nap.
If you’re wondering, I’ve since learned to pee in the woods, manage my FOMO, and avoid full-blown powder Panic. It is always worth a quick stop at the lodge if it means skiing a little looser afterward. And now that lodges also mean cold beer, I’ve grown quite fond of a midday break. Enjoy those laps, folks.
Related: The Best Pair of Ski Gloves Won’t Cost $200, They Create Memories
SPOILER ALERT: This story contains spoilers from “Maxine Plays Dead,” the Dec. 24 episode of “Palm Royale,”now streaming on Apple TV.
“Palm Royale’s” Maxine and Douglas may be divorced, but their unmistakable connection crossed the point of no return this week when she was a surprise guest at her own funeral and his devastation sent him into an unhinged frenzy.
When a body turned up in the Palm Royale pool, everyone assumed it was Maxine (Kristen Wiig) because, well, it looked like her. But society friends Dinah (Leslie Bibb) and Evelyn (Allison Janney) — along with Ann (Mindy Cohn), as Palm Beach’s resident reporter — quickly discovered at the morgue that the deceased is not Maxine.
Meanwhile, Perry (Jordan Bridges) delivered “Maxine’s” ashes to a devastated Douglas (Josh Lucas), as the town gathered for the funeral, completely unaware that the very much alive Maxine is hiding inside the casket. The eccentric spiritualist Mary delivered a message from the real dead woman — Maxine’s twin, Mirabelle — then lifted the casket lid and saw that Maxine was there. Chaos erupted: mourners gasp, Mitzi (Kaia Gerber) ran screaming, and an inconsolable Douglas eulogized his ex, telling the “dead” Maxine how much he loves her.
Later that night, Maxine and Douglas connected, and she asked if he truly meant what he said at the church, that he loves her… but his answer isn’t exactly what she expected.
“He’s untethered, he’s lost, and he’s terrified,” Josh Lucas tells Variety. “He’s in such pain. He’s just devastated… And then you think, is it because he loves her so much or is it because he’s totally a narcissist?”
Douglas (Josh Lucas) and Mitzi (Kaia Geber) attend Maxine’s funeral on ‘Palm Royale.’
Erica Parise
Maxine and Douglas’ love affair has changed since moving to Palm Royale. “When you have a relationship that’s that long — and even though you can dismiss it as these two are silly people — their souls are exploded,” he says. “So I don’t think Douglas is thinking about putting the pieces back together. I think he’s now truly unleashed. … His world has been his oyster, and it no longer is.”
It began with his infidelity and “each piece of it, it just keeps getting worse,” Lucas adds. “He loses Maxine, causes her to have a heart attack, and then when he finally [completely] loses her, I think he’s not a man who’s ever gonna put it back together again. He is not going to therapy.”
Lucas believes that up to the point he met Maxine, women were truly just “transactional” for him —and marrying Linda/Penelope (Laura Dern) was just “the next right thing to do for his life, career and money.”
He continues, “I think when he met Maxine, he truly fell in love. My sense of him is that he actually did have integrity in it, particularly in his mind that he was loyal and faithful, and he took great pride in that because he was flying all over the world. And sure, he would flirt with stewardesses, but he wouldn’t do anything.”
There is something childlike about Douglas — or dog-like, as Lucas says.
“He’s a Labrador puppy, who just is having the best time destroying the house, but then realizes, ‘Oh, my God, I destroyed the house!’” he says with a grin. “Look, he comes from incredible privilege. One of the things I think is so terrific about this show is the candy-coated confection of it all — but in the center of it is kind of this bitter pill all the time of reality.”
That dichotomy was part of the character design from the beginning. “Abe Sylvia and the creators, I don’t want to say in any way are making fun of these people because they’re not. These people exist, particularly back in this time,” he says of the 1970s setting. “But there’s obviously a through line to these, particularly white men of incredible wealth and privilege who just have no real understanding of the world. They’re truly in their own bubble. And Douglas has been in it his entire life.”
In a way, Maxine and Douglas’ marriage is playing out in a very realistic 1970s scenario, when men had their roles in the family and career, and women had theirs. Pre-Palm Royale, Maxine was a traditional wife, and Douglas was just fine with that.
“She talks about it — she’s a trad wife, and she takes great pride in that,” he says. “There’s honor in it. I do think that’s a very interesting thing that’s even going on in today’s time — the value or devalue of that. That’s where the show finds all these lovely through lines — Roe v Wade, women’s rights and the civil rights movement. But Douglas and Maxine are completely devoid of that.”
During a recent Q&A, Sylvia reminded the audience that during this period of time, in certain parts of this country, a woman could not have a checking account without her husband’s signature.
“Those would be things that Douglas would think would be good. And Maxine, her eyes are obviously being opened throughout the show by all these women who are showing her these layers of what’s possible in how society’s changing,” Lucas points out. “But I also think she takes great pride in being a wife who really loves and takes care of her husband. … I think we really try and stay away from pounding any sort of obvious political or psycho sociological message and just purely allow the show to exist as a confection.”
“Palm Royale” Season 2 is currently streaming exclusively on Apple TV+, with new episodes arriving weekly on Wednesdays.
