Mudbox or Zbrush, these programs are on the top for movie and game industry, for organic and non-organic. I would say, choose Zbrush. http://www.pixologic.com/zbrush/
You can model anything in any program. ZBrush can both hard model and soft model objects, as well Max. All you need simply is the understanding of the tools. If you have a strong understanding of how topology should be for the respective items, and how you want to open your workflow, all programs will work for you.…
mudbox is fine, too. i found its learning curve much more intuitive then zbrush. especially when using as a secondary tool, i always would go for a faster learning curve.
ZBRUSH DUDE! learn both, focus on solid poly modeling in max before, you can always build your models in zb and then retop... but I will advice you to learn proper topology and mesh flow in your 3d app and then add detail in zb.
zBrush and Mudbox is really good for very fine and complex detail. Like organic shapes, decay, and damages and scratches. Root programs like 3DSMax and Maya are better for big shapes and precise shapes. It's down to personal preference. Some people like to have really basic basemeshes and then do all the detailing in a…