Paul Maxwell
Actor
About Paul Maxwell
Paul Maxwell was an American actor who had a brief but memorable appearance in late 1950s horror cinema. His most notable role came in 1959 when he portrayed Rivero, a studio security guard, in the American International Pictures horror film 'How to Make a Monster.' This film, directed by Herbert L. Strock, was part of the late-1950s wave of teen horror films that capitalized on the monster movie craze. Maxwell's character played a pivotal role in the film's climax, confronting the monstrous makeup artist Pete Dumond. Despite his limited screen time, Maxwell's performance contributed to the film's tense atmosphere and helped establish the studio setting as a character in itself. His career appears to have been concentrated primarily around 1959, with 'How to Make a Monster' standing as his most significant documented film credit. The film has since become a cult classic among horror enthusiasts, ensuring Maxwell's place in cinema history, however brief his career may have been.
The Craft
Milestones
- Appeared in American International Pictures' 'How to Make a Monster' (1959)
- Played the role of Rivero, a studio security guard
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Though Paul Maxwell's career was brief, his contribution to 1950s horror cinema through 'How to Make a Monster' has earned him a place in the annals of classic horror film history. The film itself represents an important artifact of late-1950s American horror cinema, reflecting the era's fascination with monster movies and the behind-the-scenes world of Hollywood makeup effects. Maxwell's role as the studio guard who confronts the film's antagonist serves as a crucial narrative device in the film's climax, representing the ordinary person standing against cinematic horror. His performance, while brief, contributes to the film's enduring appeal among horror enthusiasts and film historians studying American International Pictures' output during this period.
Lasting Legacy
Paul Maxwell's legacy is intrinsically tied to his appearance in 'How to Make a Monster,' a film that has achieved cult status among horror fans. While his career may have been brief, his contribution to this classic horror film ensures his place in cinema history. The film itself continues to be studied and appreciated by horror film enthusiasts, with Maxwell's role serving as an example of the supporting character types that populated 1950s monster movies. His work represents the many character actors who contributed to the golden age of American horror cinema, even if their names weren't widely recognized at the time.
Who They Inspired
As a character actor with a brief filmography, Paul Maxwell's direct influence on other performers is difficult to trace. However, his work in 'How to Make a Monster' exemplifies the type of reliable supporting performances that were essential to the success of 1950s horror films. His portrayal of the studio security guard demonstrates how even minor characters could contribute significantly to a film's tension and narrative resolution, potentially serving as a reference point for subsequent character actors in similar roles within the horror genre.
Off Screen
Very little personal information is available about Paul Maxwell due to his brief film career and limited public profile. His appearance in 'How to Make a Monster' represents his most documented contribution to cinema, with scarce details about his life outside of this single film role.
Did You Know?
- Paul Maxwell played Rivero, a studio security guard, in 'How to Make a Monster' (1959)
- His character is one of the final people to confront the film's antagonist, Pete Dumond
- The film was produced by American International Pictures, known for their horror and teen exploitation films
- 'How to Make a Monster' was part of a double feature with 'The Brain That Wouldn't Die'
- The film has since become a cult classic among horror film enthusiasts
- Maxwell's role, while small, was crucial to the film's climactic sequence
- The movie was one of the last horror films to feature the classic monster makeup style before the genre shifted to more psychological horror
- His entire documented film career appears to be concentrated in 1959
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Paul Maxwell?
Paul Maxwell was an American actor best known for his role as Rivero, a studio security guard, in the 1959 horror film 'How to Make a Monster.' His career appears to have been brief, with this film representing his most significant documented contribution to cinema.
What films is Paul Maxwell best known for?
Paul Maxwell is primarily known for his appearance in 'How to Make a Monster' (1959), where he played the character Rivero. This American International Pictures horror film has become a cult classic and represents his most notable film credit.
When was Paul Maxwell born and when did he die?
Specific birth and death dates for Paul Maxwell are not readily available in public records, likely due to his brief film career and limited public profile beyond his 1959 film appearance.
What awards did Paul Maxwell win?
There are no documented awards or nominations for Paul Maxwell, which is consistent with his brief career as a character actor in the late 1950s film industry.
What was Paul Maxwell's acting style?
Based on his role in 'How to Make a Monster,' Maxwell appeared to be a reliable character actor capable of delivering the straightforward, grounded performances needed for supporting roles in 1950s horror films. His portrayal of the studio guard contributed effectively to the film's tension and climax.
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Films
1 film
