Director Benny Safdie has spoken highly of Dwayne Johnson’s commitment while preparing for their upcoming film, The Smashing Machine, set to premiere on October 3, 2025, in the United States. The movie, produced by A24, centers on the real-life story of Mark Kerr, a former MMA fighter whose career success contrasted with personal struggles, highlighting the intense preparation Johnson undertook for the role.
A Closer Look at Johnson’s Role in The Smashing Machine
Benny Safdie, known for his acting role in Happy Gilmore 2 and his directing work on acclaimed films like The Uncut Gems, is helming The Smashing Machine. The film follows Mark Kerr’s journey through the world of MMA and UFC, focusing on both his professional peak and his personal challenges. Safdie expressed admiration for Johnson’s intense passion and willingness to push boundaries for authenticity during filming.
“I could just see how passionate he was and I felt the same way. So it was really us trying to understand ourselves through this character. I felt like I could ask him to do anything and he would pull it out like it was nothing.”
—Benny Safdie, Director
Safdie also emphasized the respect Johnson has for Mark Kerr and his wife, Dawn, underscoring the film’s dedication to truthful storytelling. The director shared how they embraced the UFC motto “As real as it gets” as a guiding principle.
“He had a lot of respect for Mark and [his wife] Dawn and it was really about being truthful to their experience. There’s a UFC tagline that my wife got me on a shirt: ‘As real as it gets’. We just took that to the extreme.”
—Benny Safdie, Director
Dwayne Johnson’s Transformative Preparation and Training
According to reports from The Independent, Johnson goes to great lengths in his transformation, using facial prosthetics to closely resemble Mark Kerr. This attention to detail, combined with his collaboration with Benny Safdie, has generated excitement among film enthusiasts aware of Safdie’s reputation for pushing cinematic boundaries.
Johnson dedicated himself to rigorous physical training to replicate Kerr’s fighting style accurately. Sharing updates on social media, he described The Smashing Machine as a heartfelt tribute to his wrestling peers, both living and late.
From the wrestling ring to the MMA cage.With WrestleMania behind me – my second training camp of 2024 begins tomorrow for my next role, in a film titled – The Smashing Machine.My body’s banged up from Mania, but no injuries and feeling great – ready to go.Starting my MMA… pic.twitter.com/J1OJE2vkbi
—Dwayne Johnson, Actor
After years starring in blockbuster franchises like Black Adam and Jumanji, Johnson has expressed a desire to pursue more meaningful projects, reflecting his readiness to embrace complex and serious roles.
The Role Marks a New Direction in Johnson’s Career
While Dwayne Johnson has long been a household name in Hollywood, primarily known for action-packed and commercial films, this upcoming role signals a shift toward more dramatic and profound storytelling. From his debut in The Mummy Returns: The Scorpion King to his portrayal of the anti-hero Black Adam, Johnson has amassed a broad fan base but fewer critically acclaimed serious roles.
In an interview with Variety, Johnson candidly acknowledged his aspirations to deepen his craft by taking on projects that explore human struggle and emotion more deeply than before.
“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.”
—Dwayne Johnson, Actor
This turning point is viewed as an opportunity for Johnson to earn recognition beyond box office success, potentially positioning The Smashing Machine as his first serious Oscar contender. The pause following projects like Black Adam and Red One may have allowed him to reflect on his goals and artistic ambitions.
Anticipating The Smashing Machine’s Impact and Reception
The collaboration between Benny Safdie and Dwayne Johnson has generated significant buzz, as both are seen rising talents in their respective fields of directing and acting. The Smashing Machine is expected to deliver a powerful narrative grounded in the realities of MMA while exploring the complexities of Kerr’s life.
With Johnson’s dedication to physical transformation and emotional depth, coupled with Safdie’s commitment to authenticity, the film aims to stand out in the upcoming awards season. Fans and critics alike are eager to see how this blend of intensity and sincerity translates on-screen.
The upcoming release of The Smashing Machine will not only mark an important chapter in Johnson’s evolving career but may also contribute meaningfully to the sports drama genre. Observers look forward to seeing whether this film secures acclaim and accolades reflecting the remarkable efforts behind it.
