Johnson Returns in Grit-Focused Role
Dwayne Johnson steps into the ring in The Smashing Machine, portraying UFC champion Mark Kerr. The film premieres in Australian and UK cinemas on 3 October. A24 released the trailer this week, revealing Johnson’s most dramatic role to date.
Benny Safdie Makes Solo Directorial Debut
Benny Safdie, co-director of Uncut Gems and Good Time, directs and writes the biopic. This marks his first solo feature. He produces alongside Johnson, Dany Garcia, Eli Bush, Hiram Garcia, and David Koplan. Tracey Landon serves as executive producer.
A Gritty Look at a Troubled Fighter
The story adapts the 2002 HBO documentary The Smashing Machine. It follows Kerr’s rise and struggles during his fighting career. Kerr fought professionally between 1997 and 2009. He won four ADCC World Championships and two UFC Heavyweight titles.
Exploring Addiction and Turbulent Relationships
The film focuses on Kerr’s battle with substance abuse and his rocky personal relationships. Johnson stars alongside Emily Blunt as Kerr’s then-girlfriend, Dawn Staples. Blunt and Johnson reunite after their 2021 collaboration in Jungle Cruise.
Johnson Embraces Dramatic Transformation
Johnson undergoes a physical and emotional shift for the role. In an interview with Variety in 2024, Johnson said, “Benny wants to create, and continues to push the envelope when it comes to stories that are raw and real, characters that are authentic and at times uncomfortable and arresting.”
Figure 1: Dwayne Johnson in ‘The Smashing Machine’
He added, “I’m at a point in my career where I want to push myself in ways that I’ve not pushed myself in the past. I’m at a point in my career where I want to make films that matter, that explore a humanity and explore struggle [and] pain.”
Emily Blunt Reflects on the Experience
Blunt described the production in December 2024. She called it “an incredibly immersive, very intense, very emotional experience.” She also praised Safdie as “a very cool, aesthetically exciting, visual director.”
Star Power Behind and In Front of Camera
Alongside Johnson and Blunt, the film features Bas Rutten, Lyndsey Gavin, and Oleksandr Usyk. Safdie’s vision continues the gritty storytelling seen in his earlier work with his brother.
Not a Departure from Blockbusters
Johnson clarified his direction in cinema. He said, “This does not represent an abandonment of big, four-quadrant movies.” He continues to balance high-profile blockbusters with grounded projects.
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Upcoming Projects for Johnson and Blunt
Johnson recently led Red One, a Christmas action comedy. He will next appear in Disney’s live-action Moana remake. He also plans to star in a Hawaii-set crime thriller from Martin Scorsese.
Emily Blunt will also appear in that project alongside Leonardo DiCaprio. Johnson co-authors a true crime book related to the story. He called the experience “an unbelievable, inspiring and eye-opening experience.”
Blunt previously starred in The Fall Guy with Ryan Gosling. She earned her first Academy Award nomination for Oppenheimer. She will next appear in Steven Spielberg’s upcoming sci-fi film. The cast includes Josh O’Connor, Colin Firth, Eve Hewson and Colman Domingo.
Aiming for Awards and Critical Acclaim
The Smashing Machine represents a strategic shift for both Johnson and A24. It targets the awards season with a true story of resilience and pain. A24 plans a limited release before wider distribution.
Backed by a Proven Production Team
The production team behind the film brings award-winning experience. Safdie, Johnson, and Garcia lead a team known for major successes. The film’s development began following Johnson’s interest in Kerr’s life story.
A Story Rooted in Reality
Mark Kerr remains a pivotal figure in MMA history. His story, told in the 2002 documentary, captured the highs and lows of a fighter’s journey. Johnson and Safdie seek to revisit that narrative with emotional clarity and factual detail.
Final Cut Heads to Cinemas in October
The Smashing Machine will screen in Australian theatres beginning 3 October. A24 unveiled the trailer on Tuesday morning, kicking off its promotional campaign.
Authentic Portrayal with a Powerful Cast
The film avoids sensationalism and focuses on real-life struggle and performance. Johnson’s portrayal anchors the film, supported by Blunt’s emotional range and Safdie’s directorial style.
MMA World Watches with Anticipation
The MMA community and film critics await the film’s full release. Kerr’s legacy, combined with Johnson’s transformation, positions The Smashing Machine as a key film of the year.
