The new film The Smashing Machine has quickly become a talking point in Hollywood circles, especially with its strong showing at the Venice International Film Festival last month. Directed by Benny Safdie in his solo debut, the biographical sports drama stars Dwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr, the once-dominant MMA fighter known as "The Smashing Machine." It premiered on September 1, 2025, snagging the Silver Lion award, and critics are already buzzing about Johnson's potential Oscar nod for his raw, vulnerable portrayal.
Indeed, Johnson's transformation into Kerr stands out. He bulked up considerably to capture the wrestler's imposing physicality during his peak in the late 1990s and early 2000s, when Kerr dominated the UFC with his grappling prowess. The movie draws from the 2002 documentary of the same name, focusing not just on the fights but on Kerr's brutal battles with addiction and personal turmoil. Emily Blunt co-stars as Kerr's wife Dawn Staples, adding emotional depth to the story of triumph and downfall. Reviewers have praised the film for sidestepping clichés, though some note its gritty realism occasionally sacrifices narrative polish.
However, the real Mark Kerr's life adds layers to the hype. A two-time NCAA wrestling champion, Kerr racked up an impressive 12-1 MMA record but struggled with painkiller dependency after injuries piled up. Recently inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2025, Kerr himself has signed with Innovative Artists, signaling a possible resurgence in his public profile. The film's release comes at an opportune time, just days away on October 3 via A24, which could propel it into awards season contention.
Moreover, Safdie's direction brings a tense, almost documentary-like intensity to the ring scenes, blending high-stakes action with quiet moments of despair. It's Johnson's most subdued role yet, far from his usual blockbuster fare, and that shift has fueled the praise. Yet, as the movie hits theaters, questions linger about how it balances glorifying the sport's violence against its human cost.
In the end, The Smashing Machine invites us to consider what price fighters pay for glory in the cage.