Dwayne Johnson delivers a striking departure from his typical action-hero roles in the biopic The Smashing Machine, which premiered recently. The film showcases Johnson’s dramatic range as he portrays Mark Kerr, a former Mixed Martial Arts fighter battling personal demons, setting the stage for significant attention during this year’s awards season, especially for Dwayne Johnson Oscars Best Actor recognition.
A New Role for Dwayne Johnson: The Raw Portrayal of Mark Kerr
Known worldwide for his roles in The Fast & Furious franchise and the Jumanji reboot, Dwayne Johnson has long been one of Hollywood’s top box office draws. Yet, The Smashing Machine reveals an entirely different facet of his talent. Directed and written by Benny Safdie, the film is inspired by a 2002 HBO documentary about Kerr, whose life and struggles the story follows intimately, especially focusing on a tumultuous three-year period.
Johnson’s performance strips away his usual charismatic, light-hearted screen persona, offering instead a deeply authentic look at Kerr’s battles with painkiller addiction and the pressures of professional fighting. The film also explores Kerr’s complex relationship with girlfriend Dawn Staples, played by Emily Blunt, and his friendship-cum-rivalry with fellow MMA fighter Mark Coleman, portrayed by real-life athlete Ryan Bader. The narrative intensifies as Kerr suffers the first loss of his career, triggering a downward spiral that Johnson captures with raw intensity.
Emotional Depth and Realism Beyond the Ring
The Smashing Machine is notable not only for its brutal fight sequences but also for how it delves into Kerr’s inner vulnerabilities. Johnson’s portrayal emphasizes the stark contrast between Kerr’s physical toughness and emotional fragility, capturing moments of unfiltered despair and reluctant confrontation with reality. When asked how he would react if defeated, Kerr is unable to process the possibility, showcasing the mental barriers athletes often face.
Benny Safdie’s screenplay avoids sensationalism, instead offering a compassionate perspective on addiction and personal relationships. A memorable scene features Johnson smashing a door during a drug-induced rage, juxtaposed with a tender moment where Dawn explains Kerr’s change in demeanor depending on his drug use. Emily Blunt delivers a flawless performance as Dawn, her American accent and emotional portrayal earning critical praise and potential award nods for Best Supporting Actress.
Supporting Cast and Authenticity Elevate the Film
Ryan Bader’s role as Mark Coleman adds moving layers to the story, illustrating genuine camaraderie amid the harsh world of MMA. Bader’s line,
“I didn’t come here because I love Phoenix, you know?”
during a hospital visit to Kerr speaks volumes about the complexities of their relationship and the film’s commitment to nuanced storytelling.
The film’s refusal to resort to predictable clichés in its final act further distinguishes it within the sports biopic genre. Its balanced approach to storytelling and character development provides a heartfelt, gritty account of a man’s fight not only in the ring but also with himself. The Smashing Machine stands as a compelling and emotionally charged cinematic experience.
Release and Anticipated Impact
The Smashing Machine, directed by Benny Safdie and starring Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, and Ryan Bader, was shown at the Venice Film Festival and is set to release in UK cinemas on October 3, followed by a Netflix debut on November 7. This film highlights an important evolution in Johnson’s career, presenting him as a serious contender for major acting awards later this year.
With its powerful storytelling, outstanding performances, and sincere portrayal of struggles both inside and outside the ring, The Smashing Machine not only challenges Dwayne Johnson’s established image but also amplifies conversations about athlete vulnerability and addiction. Fans and critics alike are watching closely as Johnson’s journey in this film could very well culminate in coveted Dwayne Johnson Oscars Best Actor nominations, marking a transformative moment in his career.
