Who is Mark Kerr?
Dwayne Johnson’s latest film, The Smashing Machine, is a gritty biographical drama directed by Benny Safdie (Uncut Gems), depicting the life of former UFC champion Mark Kerr. Kerr, a dominant fighter from Ohio, faced significant challenges with addiction and personal struggles despite his success in the cage.
Film Premiere and Reception
The movie premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2025, where critics praised Johnson for one of his most emotionally raw performances. To accurately portray Kerr, Johnson spent three to four hours daily in makeup, wearing over a dozen prosthetics to capture his look.
Critics admired Johnson’s transformation and Safdie’s attention to authenticity.
Box Office and Release Update
Despite strong reviews, The Smashing Machine underperformed at the box office, grossing only $20.2 million worldwide against its $40 million budget after its October 3 theater release, according to Koimoi. By early November, the film had largely left theaters, leading to an earlier-than-expected digital release.
Streaming Availability
The film is now available for streaming, offering fans the chance to experience Johnson’s challenging and transformative role in a more accessible format.
Summary
The Smashing Machine showcases Dwayne Johnson’s most demanding role to date, portraying Mark Kerr’s turbulent journey with striking realism despite its disappointing box office performance.
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