Who is Mark Kerr?
UFC Icon’s Biopic ‘The Smashing Machine’ Starring Dwayne Johnson
Dwayne Johnson’s latest film, The Smashing Machine, marks a significant transformation in his acting career and ranks as one of his boldest roles to date. Directed by Benny Safdie, known for Uncut Gems, this gritty biographical drama explores the life of former UFC champion Mark Kerr.
Mark Kerr’s Story
Mark Kerr, a dominant fighter from Ohio, achieved notable victories inside the cage, but his career was heavily marred by struggles with addiction and personal pain.
Film Premiere and Reception
The movie premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2025, where critics applauded Johnson for delivering one of his most emotionally intense performances.
The actor reportedly spent three to four hours daily in makeup, using more than a dozen prosthetics to accurately portray Kerr’s appearance.
Many believed this role might finally earn Johnson an Oscar nomination thanks to its raw portrayal and Safdie’s authentic filmmaking style.
Box Office and Streaming Release
Despite positive reviews, The Smashing Machine failed to connect broadly with audiences. It opened in theaters on October 3 but earned only $20.2 million worldwide against a $40 million budget, according to Koimoi.
By early November, the film was largely pulled from theaters, leading to an earlier-than-expected digital release.
Where to Stream
The movie is now available on streaming platforms this week, offering viewers the chance to experience Johnson’s deeply personal performance from home.
Author’s Summary: Dwayne Johnson’s transformative portrayal of UFC legend Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine earned acclaim but struggled financially, prompting a swift shift to digital release.