Dwayne Johnson’s Transformative Role in “The Smashing Machine”

In the first trailer for “The Smashing Machine,” Dwayne Johnson showcases his most striking on-screen transformation to date. This biopic, centered on two-time UFC heavyweight champion Mark Kerr, was unveiled by A24 on Tuesday morning.

Directorial Debut and Star-Studded Cast

Benny Safdie, known for co-directing and co-writing acclaimed films like “Uncut Gems” and “Good Time,” makes his solo directorial feature debut with this project. Alongside Johnson, the film features a talented cast including Emily Blunt as Kerr’s wife, Dawn Staples, as well as Bas Rutten, Lyndsey Gavin, and Oleksandr Usyk. “The Smashing Machine” marks the second collaboration between Johnson and Blunt since their work in Disney’s “Jungle Cruise” in 2021. They are also set to join forces with Leonardo DiCaprio in an upcoming Hawaiian crime thriller directed by Martin Scorsese.

A Glimpse into Mark Kerr’s Life

Mark Kerr was a prominent mixed martial artist who competed from 1997 to 2009, earning four ADCC World Championships throughout his career. In 2002, he was featured in an HBO documentary also titled “The Smashing Machine,” which highlighted his struggles with substance abuse and his tumultuous relationships with his girlfriend and trainers.

Johnson’s Vision for the Film

In a previous conversation with Variety, Johnson expressed his desire to collaborate with Safdie on “The Smashing Machine,” stating, “Benny wants to create and continues to push the envelope when it comes to stories that are raw and real, characters that are authentic and at times uncomfortable and arresting. I’m at a point in my career where I want to push myself in ways that I’ve not pushed myself in the past. I want to make films that matter, that explore humanity and delve into struggle and pain.”

Production Team Behind the Film

Kerr and Safdie are co-writers for the film, while the production team includes Johnson, Danny Garcia, Eli Bush, Hiram Garcia, and David Koplan. Tracey Landon serves as the executive producer.

Release Date and Trailer

“The Smashing Machine” is set to hit theaters on October 3. Be sure to check out the trailer below!

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