Dwayne Johnson Breaks Typecasting in The Smashing Machine.
As someone who grew up a massive fan of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, with unforgettable memories of WrestleMania 17 and his larger-than-life matches, I have closely followed his transition into Hollywood. For years, Dwayne Johnson leaned into family-friendly blockbusters and popcorn action flicks, but with The Smashing Machine, he pulls a complete 180.
In Benny Safdie’s unflinching biopic, Johnson disappears into Mark Kerr, one of the most celebrated yet tormented fighters in MMA history. It’s the kind of raw, career-defining performance that finally proves Johnson has more range than audiences may have given him credit for.
Johnson Transforms Into Mark Kerr
The makeup and prosthetics department deserves every award possible for their work here. From covering Johnson’s tattoos to transforming his hairline and physical presence, the craftsmanship makes him nearly unrecognizable. His grounded portrayal captures the highs and devastating lows of masculinity, addiction, and self-doubt. It’s the most transformative acting we’ve seen from Johnson since Pain & Gain, and it might be the one that earns him the accolades he’s been chasing.
A Strong Supporting Cast
Emily Blunt gives a layered and transformative performance as Kerr’s partner, reminding viewers why Johnson was adamant about working with her again after Jungle Cruise. Their chemistry is undeniable, and she matches and elevates both the scenes and the overall story. The supporting cast also shines, especially MMA fighter Ryan Bader, who impresses as Kerr’s best friend and fellow competitor Mark Coleman. Bas Rutten’s turn as Kerr’s trainer evokes echoes of Rocky and Mickey, grounding the film in a classic mentor-fighter dynamic that resonates emotionally.
Gritty Direction and Style
Safdie’s direction is uncompromising. Shot on grainy 16mm, the film transports audiences back to MMA’s brutal early years, long before the sport became a global phenomenon. The raw cinematography adds authenticity, immersing viewers in Kerr’s punishing world inside and outside the cage.
Still, the film suffers from pacing issues. Safdie spends much of the runtime dwelling on Kerr’s struggles, with fight sequences that feel drawn out and prolonged stretches that linger too long on his lows. While the approach highlights Kerr’s torment, the imbalance leaves some moments lacking the highs needed to offset the despair.
Verdict
I give The Smashing Machine 4 out of 5 stars. It is a brutal, immersive, and deeply human portrait of Mark Kerr. Powered by Dwayne Johnson’s best performance to date, it’s a film that’s as punishing as it is transformative. While the pacing drags in parts, the acting, direction, and visual style make it a must-see.
The Smashing Machine opens in theaters everywhere on October 3.
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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.
