Dwayne Johnson Emotionally Describes 'The Smashing Machine' in Venice: "This Role Elicited a Hunger Within Me to Transform"
In the world of Hollywood, the highly-anticipated film "The Smashing Machine" is set to make waves. This daring project, produced by indie tastemakers A24, marks a significant departure for Dwayne Johnson, known for his blockbuster films and spectacle.
With a budget of $40 million, significantly less than Johnson's usual tentpole budgets, "The Smashing Machine" is a testament to the film's focus on storytelling rather than spectacle. Johnson plays Mark Kerr, a legendary two-time UFC heavyweight champion and MMA icon.
The film delves deep into Kerr's emotional struggles, beyond his fighting career. Emily Blunt portrays Kerr's wife, Dawn Staples, in a complex role that requires her to balance a somewhat one-dimensional and often contentious character opposite Johnson's Mark Kerr.
The Venice Film Festival, known for its star-studded lineups, will host the world premiere of "The Smashing Machine". Cross-generational stars like George Clooney, Julia Roberts, Jude Law, Jacob Elordi, Emma Stone, and Ayo Edebiri are expected to attend. A lavish party at a palazzo in Venice is planned to celebrate the premiere, with key personalities including Safdie, Johnson, Blunt, and the real-life Mark Kerr in attendance.
"The Smashing Machine" is a love story about the relationship between Mark Kerr and his wife, Dawn Staples. The story follows Kerr's meteoric rise in the no-holds-barred era of 1990s MMA and his personal demons, including a harrowing struggle with painkiller addiction.
Directed by Josh Safdie in his solo directorial effort, the film also includes the involvement of Benny Safdie, his brother. Johnson and Blunt reportedly connected during the set of their previous collaboration, "Oppenheimer", leading to their collaboration in "The Smashing Machine".
Johnson refers to Blunt as his "best friend" during the production of "The Smashing Machine". Mark Kerr, who struggled with painkiller addiction, is also present in the film's narrative. In a touching moment at the Venice press conference, Kerr was visibly moved during Johnson's statements about his character.
"The Smashing Machine" is set to hit U.S. cinemas on Oct. 3, 2025. This dramatic turn in Johnson's career, aided by Blunt's powerful performance, promises to be a compelling watch for audiences.
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