Shot by Kapturing – Fashion Editor Juan Camilo Rodriguez – Model Maxi Beckmann at Kult Models – Grooming by Francesca Vigliarolo – Styling Assistant Vanesa Cortes – Photographer Assistant Angela Simi // Necklace Versace
What was your very first job as a model? What were your feelings towards it?
Believe it or not, my first photo shooting was in diapers! The brand was “Pampers”. Not taking that part of my early career in account, I would say that this modeling job for The Greatest is my big debut. I’m super excited to be here and be part of this great experience, especially because of all the crazy clothes I have to wear. Although I was quite nervous at the beginning, I think the pictures turned out to be amazing.
Do you like your name? Is it linked to a particular person before you or does it have another origin?
My name combines my mixed origins. “Maximilian” certainly comes from my mother and the German side of the family, while my middle name “Elijah” emphasizes the Persian roots I inherited from my dad.
A smell that reminds you of home.
Whenever I am abroad the smell of traditional German bread instantly reminds me of home country. For sure the smell I prefer is that of my mom’s homemade baked bread.
What’s your recurring dream?
I’m still working on a way to remember the dreams. What I find quite helpful is writing down what I see in my dreams right after waking up, which is often a funny or even scary understanding.
If you had to decide, would you choose to change your past or control your future?
The past is the past. It should always remain in the past. Constantly looking back and regretting the mistakes will only create more frustration in the future. Instead I would be more engaged into controlling my future and shaping the road which lies ahead. I’m actually very thrilled to figure out what life will bring me
Shirt Dior – Jacket Versace – Trousers, Socks and Shoes Prada – Gloves Arturo Obegero
Is there a movie, or a book, that marked your life in some way?
Besides learning each Harry Potter’s magic spells by heart in my childhood, only a few months ago I was dying every week for the next episode of “Games of Thrones”. With all this fantasy franchises I actually get super nerdy and I can’t resist watching immediately how the tv series ends. I also have a thing for horror movies, because they are licensed to break boundaries and tell stories nobody would expect. They make me think a lot about my every day life as I love analyzing the hidden meaning behind their surface. “Mother” is a great example of horror movie.
Right now, what point in your career do you think you’ve reached?
I’m just at the starting blocks. I had the chance to get a glimpse of what the modeling industry looks like and I’m so honored to be able to have a closer look into it in the next future.
Do you have a secret diary where you put down your thoughts?
I never really got into writing, but in retrospect I think sometimes it would have been beneficial to drop some lines to clear up the mind. Especially in stressful situations, I think it would help a lot of people to focus.
Who’s the first person you call when you get good or bad news?
I am very lucky to have my friends and family to support me, no matter what I do. I know that I can always count on them and they would give me the best advice in return. Although I must confess that depending on how a good or bad news is, I would probably choose very carefully the most trustworthy person to turn to.
Would you ever go bungee jumping?
No, I wouldn’t. I’m not a huge adrenaline seeker. I’m still processing my last roller coaster adventure! However I would love to try out skydiving on day. I think it’s much more enjoyable in terms of view and environment. Although it’s even higher up in the sky than bungee jumping, I’d be more drawn to this kind of extreme experience.
Do you like gardening? Are you any good at it?
I never had a green thumb. My greatest interest about the world of flowers and plants is related to the purchase of a green plastic plant, still standing in the corner of my room. And it looks great!
Shirt Dior – Jacket Versace – Trousers, Socks and Shoes Prada – Gloves Arturo Obegero // Jacket, Shirt and Trousers Fendi – Socks and Sandals Dior
Are you superstitious?
I don’t believe in superstition. Why do people waste energy in being scared all the time? Instead I do believe in the power of the chewing gum. Never leave your home without it, trust me! No photo shootings is allowed without prior 10 minutes of chewing gum meditation. It calms me down. I’m probably addicted at this point…
What’s your guilty pleasure?
For sure, any vegan deserts at all! Nowadays there is such a huge variety of vegan sweets and deserts but from time to time I have to break my 6-year lasting vegan diet and empty a whole box of macaroons. I don’t even feel guilty about it!
Are you a messy or super organised guy?
I can’t leave my house without making the bed and cleaning up the closet. Lately I have discovered my OCD disease, I guess such routine tasks are reasonable now.
Tell me the happiest memory from your childhood.
That moment when I saw for the first time a full sized Micky Mouse, in Disneyland Paris. I’m a huge Disney fan and I love the old animated films I used to watch during my childhood. I’ve already been to Disneyland twice and getting older is not stopping me from buying a third ticket soon.
If you found Aladdin’s lamp, what would you ask for?
I have thought about this question in my head many times. And the most obvious and right wish is to ask for endless wishes.
Shirt, Socks and Shoes Prada – Ruffle Top Arturo Obegero – Trousers Dior – Vest Givenchy //Top and Trousers Arturo Obegero – Hat Givenchy