In 2025, Dwayne Johnson received his first Golden Globe nomination for his role as Mark Kerr in A24’s film The Smashing Machine. However, only weeks after its release, the movie quickly lost the top ranking on HBO Max to another A24 production, If I Had Legs I’d Kick You. This shift reveals changing audience preferences and the unpredictable nature of streaming success for films led by major stars like Johnson.
Rising Popularity of If I Had Legs I’d Kick You
If I Had Legs I’d Kick You, a dark comedy-drama written and directed by Mary Bronstein, claimed the number one position on HBO Max by February 1, according to streaming analytics site FlixPatrol. Rose Byrne stars as Linda, a mother struggling with multiple crises in her life, including her child’s unexplained illness and a fractured relationship with her therapist. Byrne’s gripping performance earned her the film’s first Golden Globe Award for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy, while also securing her an Academy Award nomination.
The film features notable performances from Conan O’Brien as Linda’s therapist, alongside Danielle Macdonald, Christian Slater, A$AP Rocky, Ivy Wolk, Josh Pais, and Mary Bronstein herself. Critics have praised the movie widely, with a 92% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on over 190 reviews, and audiences have responded positively with a 79% score, reflecting strong reception overall.
With her life crashing down around her, Linda attempts to navigate her child’s mysterious illness, her absent husband, a missing person, and an increasingly hostile relationship with her therapist.
Mary Bronstein, Writer/Director
The Smashing Machine’s Underwhelming Box Office Performance
Despite earning Johnson his first Golden Globe nod alongside a nomination for Emily Blunt, who stars as Dawn Staples, The Smashing Machine struggled commercially after its October 2025 release. Directed and written by Benny Safdie, the film brought critical acclaim but generated only $21.1 million worldwide against a production budget of about $50 million, falling well short of expectations. Its reception, while positive, was more moderate with a 70% critic score and a 74% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Christopher Nolan publicly praised Johnson’s portrayal of Mark Kerr, describing it as incredible during a screening at the Director’s Guild of America. Johnson reflected on this praise in a previous interview, saying,
It was the most inspiring thing anyone has ever said about me,
Dwayne Johnson, Actor
I was sitting next to my wife and I grabbed her hand so hard, and she squeezed my hand back,
Dwayne Johnson, Actor
Streaming Availability and Cast Highlights
Both The Smashing Machine and If I Had Legs I’d Kick You are currently available to stream on HBO Max, offering viewers contrasting stories with notable ensemble casts. The Smashing Machine features Dwayne Johnson as the former wrestler and MMA fighter Mark Kerr, alongside Emily Blunt in a key role. Meanwhile, If I Had Legs I’d Kick You casts Rose Byrne as Linda, supported by Delaney Quinn as the child facing illness, Mary Bronstein as Dr. Spring, and A$AP Rocky portraying James.
Implications of the Shift in Audience Preferences
The rapid rise of If I Had Legs I’d Kick You over The Smashing Machine highlights the volatile nature of streaming platforms and the challenge even star-powered films face in maintaining viewer interest. Johnson’s Golden Globe recognition brought prestige to The Smashing Machine, but commercial success and audience engagement have favored Bronstein’s film, pointing to evolving tastes that blend intense personal dramas with dark humor. As both films continue to stream, future awards and reception may further influence their legacies and industry standing.
