Christopher Nolan has given an unexpected boost to Dwayne Johnson’s Oscar campaign for his role in The Smashing Machine, praising the actor’s portrayal of MMA fighter Mark Kerr. The acclaimed director, known for his Oscar-winning work on Oppenheimer, recently appeared on The Director’s Cut podcast alongside the film’s director, Benny Safdie, where he described Johnson’s performance as profoundly moving.
“I think it’s an incredible performance,”
Nolan said.
“I don’t think you’ll see a better performance this year or most other years.”
The Collaboration Between Nolan and Benny Safdie
Nolan and Safdie share a professional connection, with Nolan directing Safdie in Oppenheimer, which also stars Emily Blunt—who plays Mark Kerr’s wife, Dawn Staples, in The Smashing Machine. Safdie got to know Blunt on the set of Nolan’s film, strengthening the collaborative ties between the filmmakers and cast.
Playfully addressing Safdie on the podcast, Nolan remarked,
“I heard a rumor that when you were supposed to be learning your lines on my set, you were actually canvassing people to be in your movie. I wasn’t aware of that at the time, but it seems to have worked out great for you.”
On a more serious tone, Nolan added,
“Congratulations on the movie. It’s a really remarkable and radical piece of work that will be understood more and more over time. I’m very proud to know you.”
Overview of The Smashing Machine and Johnson’s Role
In The Smashing Machine, Johnson portrays Mark Kerr, a two-time UFC heavyweight champion, navigating the highs and lows of his MMA career and personal struggles, including battles with substance abuse. Emily Blunt plays his wife, Dawn Staples, highlighting their difficult and volatile relationship throughout the film.
Although the movie earned Safdie the best director award at the Venice Film Festival, it has struggled commercially, opening to just $5.9 million domestically. This marked a significant decline for Johnson, falling below the box office performance of his 2010 thriller Faster, which opened at $8.5 million. So far, the film has grossed around $10 million in the U.S., against a $50 million production budget.
Johnson’s Reflection on His Role and the Film’s Impact
Following the film’s modest release, Johnson expressed deep personal gratitude for the opportunity to delve into such a transformative role. He said,
“In our storytelling world, you can’t control box office results — but what I realized you can control is your performance, and your commitment to completely disappear and go elsewhere. And I will always run to that opportunity.”
He continued,
“It was my honor to transform in this role for my director, Benny Safdie. Thank you brother for believing in me. Truth is this film has changed my life. With deep gratitude, respect and radical empathy, DJ.”
The Significance of Nolan’s Endorsement and What Lies Ahead
Christopher Nolan’s strong praise for Dwayne Johnson emphasizes the actor’s dedication to his craft and highlights Johnson’s potential for critical acclaim beyond his usual blockbuster roles. Although The Smashing Machine faces commercial challenges, the film’s recognition at Venice and Nolan’s endorsement could elevate its standing among award voters and cinephiles alike.
This support might also open doors for Johnson to pursue more dramatic, character-driven parts in the future, contributing to a broader evolution of his career. Fans and critics will be watching closely as the awards season progresses to see how this campaign unfolds.
