At 53 years old, Dwayne Johnson remains committed to his body transformation journey, revealing new updates during the Toronto International Film Festival on September 8. The actor, known for his impressive physical transformations, recently displayed noticeable weight loss at the Venice Film Festival while promoting his latest film, The Smashing Machine. Johnson disclosed he plans to slim down further for his upcoming role in Lizard Music, illustrating his ongoing dedication to adapting his physique for diverse characters.
Upcoming Role in Lizard Music Demands Further Weight Loss
During a conversation at the Royal Alexandra Theatre, Johnson described his new character in Lizard Music as
“a very whimsical and eccentric 70-something-year-old man called the Chicken Man.”
He added that the Chicken Man’s best friend is, uniquely, a chicken of similar age. Preparing for this unconventional role, Johnson shared enthusiasm about transforming his body once more, reflecting on his recent experience in The Smashing Machine.
“I’m so excited because I get a chance to hopefully transform again like I was able to do in Smashing Machine. Can’t wait,”
he said.
In a playful nod to the character’s name, Johnson remarked that he plans to reduce his chicken consumption as part of his slimming process. Acknowledging the work ahead, he commented on his current progress, saying,
“This is me slimmed down. In the process of slimming down. I still have a long ways to go,”
emphasizing his ongoing efforts.
Recognition for Physically Demanding Role in The Smashing Machine
The actor earned praise for his portrayal of former UFC fighter Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine, a role requiring significant weight loss and extensive prosthetic use to accurately depict Kerr’s appearance. The film follows Kerr’s turbulent life, focusing not only on his fighting career but also his struggles with addiction and personal relationships.
Johnson expressed that, while the film centers on a fighter, it fundamentally tells a love story involving Kerr, his ex-wife Dawn Staples, and his complicated battle with his career and health.
“Mark was the greatest fighter in the world at one point, but this film is not even really about fighting — it’s a love story,”
Johnson explained.
“It’s a love story about Mark and Dawn in this relationship, and it’s a love story about Mark and the love that he had for the thing that he did — his struggle with trying to deliver [in the ring], his challenges and his overcoming. As you know, Mark OD’d twice, and he’s lucky to be alive — and that’s part of why this story is so special.”
Emotional Reception at Venice Film Festival Highlights Impact
The premiere of The Smashing Machine on September 1 at the Venice Film Festival was met with emotional acclaim, as Johnson received a standing ovation lasting 15 minutes. This response underscored the powerful effect of his performance and the story itself. Variety editor Ramin Setoodeh remarked on the moment’s significance, comparing the reaction to previous notable events at the festival.
“This was the most emotion we’ve seen on the Lido since Brendan Fraser launched his Oscar campaign here four years ago for ‘The Whale,’”
Setoodeh tweeted, sharing footage of Johnson’s heartfelt reaction.
Collaboration with Director Benny Safdie Continues
The Smashing Machine was directed by Benny Safdie and stars Johnson alongside Emily Blunt, who portrays Kerr’s ex-wife Dawn Staples. Johnson will reunite with Safdie on the upcoming film Lizard Music, continuing their creative partnership. This ongoing collaboration appears to bring out deeply transformative performances from Johnson, challenging him physically and emotionally.
Looking Ahead: The Importance of Johnson’s Transformation Journey
Dwayne Johnson’s openness about his evolving body transformation highlights the demands actors face when bringing complex characters to life. His willingness to change his physical appearance illustrates his dedication to authenticity in storytelling. As he prepares for the role of the Chicken Man, audiences can anticipate another compelling transformation that balances physical change with nuanced characterization. Johnson’s journey also reflects broader discussions around the discipline and vulnerability involved in such transformations, drawing attention to the significance of health and resilience in the entertainment industry.
