Max Fischer was always in trouble at Rushmore Academy, but that didn’t stop him from dreaming big. In Rushmore, we follow the quirky and ambitious Max as he juggles school, friendships, and his obsession with an older woman, all while running a series of wild school projects. Max is one of those kids who doesn’t know when to stop, but that’s what makes his story so entertaining.

A key moment is when Max and his rival, Herman Blume, team up despite their differences, both trying to win the heart of Miss Cross. It makes you wonder, What if Max hadn’t tried so hard to impress her? Would he have found a different path? Some fans believe that Max’s constant pursuit of validation is part of his deeper need to prove himself—especially after his difficult relationship with his father.

Imagine a prequel showing Max’s childhood and how he developed his unique personality. Maybe his rivalry with Herman Blume could have started much earlier in his life.

In an alternate ending, Max could have finally found peace with himself, no longer needing to impress others. He might have left Rushmore behind, realizing that the true goal was finding his own place in the world.