Fans are shocked by Dwayne Johnson’s look for The Smashing Machine.
Dwayne Johnson steps into the octagon this fall in The Smashing Machine, a dramatic new film from writer-director Benny Safdie. The A24 release, which also stars Emily Blunt, is set to hit theaters Friday, Oct. 3, 2025.
Johnson portrays Mark Kerr, a legendary figure in mixed martial arts and a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion. The film is based on Kerr’s life and is named after the acclaimed 2002 HBO documentary that chronicled his rise in the fighting world and his harrowing battle with addiction to painkillers.
Safdie is best known for co-directing Uncut Gems and Good Time. Now he takes a solo turn behind the camera, crafting a gritty and emotional look at the pressures of fame, the brutality of the sport, and the toll it takes on the body and mind. Blunt stars alongside Johnson in a pivotal supporting role. This marks a reunion for the two actors after their previous collaboration on Jungle Cruise.
With Johnson undergoing a major transformation for the role, both physically and emotionally, The Smashing Machine is expected to show a different side of the actor, best known for his blockbuster action roles and comedic chops.
The film is distributed by A24 and has already generated buzz for award-season potential.
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Sean Tajipour
Sean Tajipour is the Founder and Editor of Nerdtropolis and the host of the Moviegoers Society and Reel Insights Podcast. He is also a member of the Critics Choice Association. You can follow on Twitter and Instagram @Seantaj.
