The unlikely duo of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and A24 team up in “The Smashing Machine”, a biographical sports drama from writer-director Benny Safdie. The film tells the true story of former American wrestler turned mixed martial artist Mark Kerr. It sees Johnson undergoing a significant on-screen transformation to play the troubled two-time UFC heavyweight champ. The movie’s much anticipated first trailer really gives us a sense of what Safdie is going for.
“The Smashing Machine” not only follows Kerr’s MMA success but also his personal struggles. In addition to the physical wear and tear on his body, he also battled substance abuse which took its own toll. His issues would effect his relationships, especially with his then wife Dawn Staples (played by the always exceptional Emily Blunt). I really like the look of this both visually and dramatically. It’s good to see Johnson challenging himself and Blunt enhances everything she’s in.
“The Smashing Machine” comes to theaters on October 3rd. Check out the trailer below and let me know if you’ll be seeing it or taking a pass.
Keith & the Movies 
streaming, yes
Yes ill be seeing this. this might be a recommendation for All viewers because of the director and the true story.
..but not for kids
for sure
I agree. I’m not all that familiar with his story but this looks fascinating.
And the Razzie goes to…
That does not look like The Rock! Can’t stand wrestling so won’t be seeing this.
He definitely undergoes a transformation. From my understanding it’s more about his personal struggles. But I’m sure (judging by the trailer) that MMA fits in as well.
Well the trailer looks good so I might yet.
Maybe its just me but I’m just so tired of the Rock and sense I have zero interest in MMA or UFC at all, its a hard pass for me . Perhaps it will finally show the Rocks ability to not play himself, because all I see from him are one note performances in everything he does.
I can understand that. I tend to enjoy him even if I don’t always love his movies. This definitely looks different than anything he has done he before.