In 2012, the Hudson Valley Film Commission referred many young actors (and crew) from the region to work on Maggie Greenwald's THE LAST KEEPERS, starring Aidan Quinn, Virginia Madsen, Zosia Mamet, Olympia Dukakis, Sam Underwood and Nat Wolff.

One of those actors was Max Schneider. Formerly from the Woodstock Day School, MAX was attending NYU, but opted to follow a new road when given the opportunity, and left to pursue his acting career.

Several months after performing as Lance, in scenes filmed at Saugerties High School, MAX was on his way to Los Angeles to try out for pilot season. He landed a feature role in Nickelodeon's HOW TO ROCK.

“THE LAST KEEPERS was my first movie ever and such a special experience,” Max told the Hudson Valley Film Commission. ”It’s actually why I dropped out of NYU and pursued music and acting full time. Without its glorious cast and people, I certainly wouldn’t have the wonderful life I have now. Very grateful.”

“We all knew Max was a rare talent,” recalls THE LAST KEEPERS co-writer Peter Hutchings. “Not only did have a special presence, but he came in every day with such a terrific attitude--his enthusiasm was infectious. At the time I didn't know he was also a musician, but a couple years later, I used a great song of his, Mugshot, in a film I directed called THE OUTCASTS.

As an actor/musician, MAX has been recognized by G.Q. as a “Young Pop-God.” At age 17, he was featured in a Dolce and Gabbana campaign with Madonna. His rise has been well deserved and the result of very hard work. We're wishing him continued success.

MAX can be seen in this video performing his latest hit, LOVE ME LESS, on TODAY with Hoda and Jenna!.

For more about MAX, visit http://maxmusicofficial.com

For more about the Hudson Valley Film Commission, visit hudsonvalleyfilmcommission.org,

Blog post by KJ Ryan