"The Smashing Machine" is Now Streaming: How to Watch at Home
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson shifts gears from his usual action-comedy roles to a deeper, dramatic portrayal of MMA fighter Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine. The film premiered at the 2025 Venice International Film Festival and later showed at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, where Kristy Puchko, Mashable’s film editor, offered a positive review highlighting Johnson's compelling performance.
Cast and Story Overview
- Dwayne Johnson stars as Mark Kerr.
- Emily Blunt plays Kerr’s partner, Dawn Staples.
- Ryan Bader appears as UFC champion Mark Coleman.
- Oleksandr Usyk features as MMA fighter Igor Vovchanchyn.
Written and directed by Benny Safdie (Uncut Gems), the film recounts the true story of Kerr amidst the early UFC era of the 1990s. The narrative spans several years, taking viewers from Japan’s Pride FC competition back to the United States, focusing on Kerr’s personal challenges and his tumultuous relationship with Dawn as he competes to be the best fighter.
Critical Reception and Viewing Details
The film received mostly favorable reviews, with particular acclaim for Johnson's transformation and emotional depth.
“It earned mostly positive reviews, with tons of praise for Johnson's performance.”
If you missed The Smashing Machine in theaters, it is now available for home viewing. Check streaming platforms to catch the official trailer and experience Johnson’s remarkable shift into the world of MMA.
Author's Summary
Dwayne Johnson delivers a powerful dramatic performance in The Smashing Machine, a gripping portrayal of MMA fighter Mark Kerr’s early UFC struggles and personal battles.
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