A24 has done it again. Known for producing bold, character-driven cinema, the studio now turns its lens toward the brutal, often misunderstood world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in The Smashing Machine. Directed by Benny Safdie and starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, this upcoming biopic explores the rise, fall, and inner turmoil of legendary fighter Mark Kerr, one of the most dominant figures in early UFC history.
What makes The Smashing Machine stand out is not just its subject matter, but the way it's shaping up to peel back the layers of masculinity, addiction, and emotional vulnerability in professional fighting — a theme rarely explored in mainstream sport films.
A24 and Benny Safdie: A Promising Match
When A24 backs a project, expectations are naturally high. Their commitment to raw storytelling and unconventional narratives has earned them a loyal following. In this case, handing the reins to Benny Safdie — one half of the Safdie brothers, known for Uncut Gems and Good Time — signals a visceral, fast-paced experience.
“We’re not just making a fight film. We’re making a human film — about what it means to destroy yourself for something bigger than you.”
— Benny Safdie on his vision for The Smashing Machine
Safdie's directorial style, characterised by close-up tension, gritty realism, and chaotic energy, feels like the perfect match for Kerr’s story — a life marked by glory in the ring and tragedy outside it.
The Transformation of Dwayne Johnson
For years, Dwayne Johnson has been one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars — charming, safe, physically imposing. But here, he’s unrecognisable. Gone are the glossy action-hero tropes. What we’re seeing instead is a gritty, bruised, and emotionally fragile Mark Kerr.
Photos from the set and the recently released trailer show Johnson sporting a receding hairline, heavy prosthetics, and visible signs of wear — a far cry from his usual chiselled persona. More importantly, his voice and body language hint at a man weighed down by more than just physical punishment.
“This is the role of my career. It’s raw, it’s painful, and it’s real.”
— Dwayne Johnson on portraying Mark Kerr (source)
His decision to step into such a vulnerable role not only showcases his range but could potentially redefine how audiences perceive him as an actor. There’s talk already of early Oscar buzz — and rightly so.
Who Was Mark Kerr?
Before Conor McGregor and Jon Jones, Mark Kerr was the original juggernaut. A collegiate wrestling champion turned MMA powerhouse, Kerr stormed the early UFC and PRIDE scenes with a style that blended brute strength with technical skill. He was feared, admired, and, for a time, unbeatable.
But behind the scenes, Kerr battled substance abuse, emotional instability, and a toxic relationship with fame. His struggles were first documented in the 2002 HBO documentary also titled The Smashing Machine, which this new feature film draws heavily from.
That documentary painted a stark picture: a man addicted to painkillers, torn between loyalty to his friends and the weight of expectation, crumbling under the pressure of being a public figure in a violent sport still trying to find its identity.
Emily Blunt as Dawn Staples
Joining Johnson is the ever-brilliant Emily Blunt, who plays Dawn Staples — Kerr’s then-girlfriend and emotional anchor. From what we’ve seen in the trailer, their chemistry is tense and complicated, painting a picture of a relationship strained by addiction, fame, and the inherent brutality of Kerr’s lifestyle.
Blunt’s involvement adds gravitas to the film and brings emotional weight to a story that might otherwise be seen as testosterone-fuelled or one-dimensional.
The Film’s Themes: More Than Just Fighting
At its core, The Smashing Machine is not just about punches and takedowns — it’s about identity. It’s about how a man known for physical dominance can struggle so deeply with self-worth, control, and emotional pain.
“It’s not a movie about victory. It’s a movie about survival.”
— Benny Safdie
This approach places the film in the same lineage as The Wrestler (2008) or Raging Bull (1980) — both of which looked beyond the sport to the psychological and emotional costs of living a life of conflict.
The film also highlights the early, unregulated days of MMA, where rules were fluid and fighter safety was often an afterthought. It draws attention to how the culture of toughness and silent suffering can destroy even the strongest athletes.
Technical Aspects and Cinematic Style
Cinematography-wise, Safdie is expected to use a handheld, almost documentary-style approach — creating an immersive, claustrophobic feeling. The editing will likely mirror his previous work, with rapid cuts, overlapping dialogue, and anxious pacing.
The score, too, is expected to lean into minimalism — possibly echoing the bleak, pulsing tones heard in Uncut Gems or Good Time — which would underscore the tension of both the fights and Kerr’s internal battles.
Why This Film Matters
In today’s media landscape, combat sports are more popular than ever, but rarely do we pause to consider the cost. Fighters are often dehumanised — seen as entertainment rather than people with lives beyond the cage.
The Smashing Machine asks us to look closer.
It’s not just a film for MMA fans. It’s a story for anyone who's battled demons, struggled with identity, or tried to keep it together when everything’s falling apart.
Final Thoughts
The Smashing Machine may very well become one of A24’s most emotionally potent films. With a powerful story, a bold performance from Dwayne Johnson, and the distinctive touch of Benny Safdie, it has all the makings of a modern classic.
Release date: 3rd October 2025
Directed by: Benny Safdie
Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt
Studio: A24
Genre: Biographical Drama, Sports
If you're tired of cookie-cutter sports films and want something that goes deeper — something that bruises, bleeds, and bares its soul — then mark your calendars. This one’s not to be missed.