Dwayne Johnson Delves Into Darkness in ‘The Smashing Machine’

LOS ANGELES, CA — Dwayne Johnson stars as Kerr in the new film, ‘The Smashing Machine,’ which opens in theaters on October 3. In the movie, the 53-year-old actor portrays a man battling addiction while navigating the pressures of his career in mixed martial arts.

Kerr, described as ‘255 pounds of pure muscle,’ struggles to stay sober and deal with personal relationships. His girlfriend, played by Emily Blunt, struggles to support him as he adjusts to life without opioids. The film explores the tension in their relationship, marked by mundane frustrations like his preference for whole milk in smoothies.

‘The Smashing Machine’ features several MMA match scenes but emphasizes the emotional turmoil in Kerr’s domestic life. Director Benny Safdie balances moments of explosive potential with quiet introspection. Critics have noted that the film draws parallels to classic sports dramas but avoids many genre cliches.

Johnson’s performance has drawn praise, presenting a layered character that showcases his range as an actor. He is known for his roles as heroic figures in previous films such as ‘Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle’ and ‘Jungle Cruise’, but here he reveals a more complex side. ‘It’s the highest of the highs, it’s orgasmic,’ Kerr says, describing his feelings about competition, hinting at the struggles he faces outside the ring.

Despite experimentation with darker themes, Johnson remains committed to roles that offer an uplifting resolution. He has expressed that he prefers not to portray sadness or bleak endings in his movies. As Johnson dives deeper into character portrayal, he has resonated with viewers seeking authenticity and strength in complex stories.

While ‘The Smashing Machine’ is not without its flaws, Johnson’s performance has sparked Academy Awards discussions among critics. Some believe he may be in the running for an Oscar nomination due to the nuances of his role.

This film marks a significant moment in Johnson’s career as he continues to evolve from his wrestling persona as ‘The Rock’ into a serious actor who is unafraid to explore challenging, rigorous roles.