Dwayne Johnson Shines at Venice in The Smashing Machine

Dwayne Johnson, widely known for his action-packed roles in blockbuster movies like Jumanji and the Fast & Furious series, is taking on a completely different kind of challenge. This time, the actor is stepping away from the world of high-octane stunts and thrilling car chases to portray a deeply emotional and dramatic character in the film The Smashing Machine. Johnson stars as UFC legend Mark Kerr, a fighter whose story is filled with both triumph and tragedy.

The world premiere of The Smashing Machine took place on Monday at the Venice Film Festival, one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. The festival has a strong reputation for showcasing performances that often lead to major awards, including the Oscars. Many critics and festival insiders are already talking about Dwayne Johnson as a serious contender for Best Actor.

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Venice Film Festival: A Launchpad for Awards

The Venice Film Festival has been the starting point for many actors who later received Oscar nominations. For example, Brendan Fraser earned critical acclaim for his role in The Whale, and Adrien Brody was widely recognized for The Pianist and The Brutalist. Alberto Barbera, the festival director, praised Johnson’s performance in The Smashing Machine, stating that the actor is “absolutely amazing.” He also mentioned that both Johnson and Emily Blunt, who plays Kerr’s wife Dawn Staples, could very well be nominated for Oscars next year.

The festival, which runs from late August to early September, has become a place where audiences and critics alike can witness actors stepping out of their comfort zones. In this case, Dwayne Johnson is shedding his usual action-hero persona to reveal a more vulnerable, complex side of himself.

About The Smashing Machine

The Smashing Machine, distributed by A24, tells the real-life story of Mark Kerr, a two-time UFC heavyweight tournament champion. Kerr was famous for his skill and power in the ring, earning the nickname “The Smashing Machine.” His career, however, was not without challenges. Off the mat, Kerr struggled with serious addiction to painkillers and opioids, which led to two near-fatal overdoses.

The film explores both the highs and lows of Kerr’s life. In the ring, he is a dominant force, admired by fans and feared by opponents. Outside the ring, he battles personal demons that bring a human, emotional side to his story. This duality allows Dwayne Johnson to showcase a wide range of emotions, from strength and determination to vulnerability and heartbreak.

Emily Blunt plays Dawn Staples, Kerr’s wife, and her performance is also receiving praise. Her character provides a window into the challenges of supporting a loved one through addiction and the pressures of a high-profile sports career.

Director Benny Safdie’s Vision

Benny Safdie, the director of The Smashing Machine, is known for his work on acclaimed films such as Uncut Gems and for appearing in Oppenheimer. Safdie explained that the title of the film is an “onomatopoeia,” a word that sounds like the action it represents. In this case, it evokes images of force, power, and destruction — all qualities that describe Mark Kerr’s fighting style.

However, Safdie emphasizes that the heart of the film is empathy. He wanted to go beyond the physical action of MMA fights to show the personal side of Kerr and his wife. “We wanted to understand what it’s really like to be Mark Kerr, what it’s like to be Dawn Staples. I wanted this movie to exist as a memory for everyone who watches it,” he said.

The film not only depicts the intensity of the fights but also the struggles and emotional challenges behind the scenes. By focusing on the human side of Kerr’s story, Safdie ensures that the audience can connect with the characters on a personal level.

Awards Buzz and Festival Competition

The Smashing Machine is not the only film generating excitement at Venice 2025. The festival’s lineup includes other notable movies like Frankenstein, Bugonia, and The Voice of Hind Rajab. Despite strong competition, early reactions suggest that Johnson’s performance could stand out. Critics have noted that Johnson brings an authenticity and depth to his portrayal of Mark Kerr that goes beyond his usual action-hero image.

The festival awards will be announced on September 6, and the anticipation surrounding The Smashing Machine is already high. After its premiere in Venice, the film is scheduled to release in North American theaters on October 3. Audiences will soon have the opportunity to see Johnson in a role that challenges his acting abilities and highlights his versatility as a performer.

Why This Role is Different for Dwayne Johnson

For years, Dwayne Johnson has been synonymous with action and adventure. Whether playing a daring hero in Jumanji or a skilled driver in the Fast & Furious franchise, audiences have come to expect thrilling stunts and larger-than-life personalities. However, in The Smashing Machine, Johnson’s performance requires a different kind of strength — emotional and psychological rather than physical.

The role demands a portrayal of real human struggles, including addiction, personal loss, and the pressures of fame. Johnson’s transformation into Mark Kerr is a testament to his dedication as an actor. He not only physically resembles Kerr but also immerses himself in the fighter’s emotional world. This makes his performance both believable and moving.

The Human Story Behind the Fighter

Mark Kerr’s story is more than just a sports tale. It is a story about resilience, human vulnerability, and the struggles many people face behind closed doors. The film shows that even the strongest athletes can be deeply affected by personal challenges. Kerr’s battle with addiction and the impact it had on his relationships adds emotional depth to the story.

Dawn Staples’ character also plays a crucial role. Her support, struggles, and experiences provide insight into the life of someone standing beside a loved one dealing with addiction. Together, Kerr and Staples’ journey creates a narrative that is both inspiring and heartbreaking.

The Smashing Machine is shaping up to be a film that not only entertains but also resonates emotionally with its audience. Dwayne Johnson’s departure from action-packed roles to a deeply emotional performance shows his growth as an actor. The Venice Film Festival premiere has already sparked early awards buzz, suggesting that Johnson could be recognized for his efforts when the Oscar season begins.

As audiences await the North American release in October, it is clear that The Smashing Machine is more than just a sports movie. It is a story about humanity, struggle, and resilience, brought to life by performances that are authentic, moving, and unforgettable.

For fans of Dwayne Johnson and cinema lovers alike, this film promises a new perspective on an actor who has already conquered action and comedy, now venturing into the powerful world of dramatic storytelling.