REVIEW — “The Smashing Machine”

The story of one of the UFC’s first breakout stars, Mark Kerr (Dwayne Johnson), The Smashing Machine plunges audiences into the unglamorous, animalistic world of early mixed martial arts (MMA). However, The Smashing Machine is not the standard, crowd-pleasing sports drama that its title and subject might suggest. It is a different kind of beast.

Instead, writer and director Bennie Safdie, in his solo directorial debut, takes an observational documentary-style approach to the film by using handheld, gritty camerawork and mimicking low-grade ’90s video aesthetic to achieve a raw, unfiltered look at a man facing battles both inside and outside of the octagon.

Johnson’s transformative performance as Kerr is, undoubtedly, the main attraction and heart of the film. As Kerr, Johnson completely sheds his “The Rock” persona. Unrecognizable beneath prosthetics and an uncharacteristically subdued demeanor, he portrays Kerr as a soft-spoken, gentle giant whose immense strength and physical presence mask a profoundly deep vulnerability.

The film reteams Johnson with his Jungle Cruise co-star Emily Blunt. The actress delivers a startling against-type performance as Kerr’s girlfriend and eventual wife, Dawn Staples. Consumed by insecurities, the character is a dramatic departure for Blunt and a volatile contrast to Johnson’s quiet rage as Kerr.

Their relationship is depicted as a toxic domestic struggle; Dawn is often portrayed as the demanding catalyst, provoking Mark’s inner turmoil. The pair are dynamic onscreen, feeding off of their natural chemistry and morphing it into a passive-aggressive toxicity that is both explosive and heartbreaking. Blunt excels at lending humanity and complexity to a character who could easily have been a stereotype, making their shouting matches and spiraling emotional warfare Kerr’s most devastating “fights” in the entire film.

Safdie wisely surrounds his A-list leads with supporting players from the world of MMA, a move that enhances the film’s authenticity. Notable appearances include former champ Ryan Bader as Kerr’s supportive best friend and fellow fighter, Mark Coleman, and MMA legend Bas Rutten, playing himself as Kerr’s loyal trainer and mentor. Their presence in the film blurs the line between biopic and documentary, cementing the film’s commitment to realism.

The film explores Kerr’s pioneering career and the sacrifices he made that fundamentally impacted the development and growth of the UFC. Yet, his triumphs inside the ring were continually undermined by battles outside it, primarily his debilitating struggle with opioid addiction following devastating injuries.

By focusing on the physical and psychological toll of the sport and Mark’s descent into self-abuse and his attempts at sobriety and a comeback, The Smashing Machine transcends the traditional sports narrative. It is less about winning the final match and more about the human cost of being a pioneer, delivering a surprisingly haunting and sympathetic character study that is elevated by Johnson’s nuanced and tender performance. As Mark Kerr, The Rock is cooking, and it smells like an Oscar nomination. 3.5/5

Rated R with a running time of 2 hours, 3 minutes, The Smashing Machine opens in theaters on October 3, 2025.