Dwayne Johnson delivers a transformative and powerful performance in Benny Safdie’s The Smashing Machine, breaking away from his usual star persona to immerse himself in the deeply troubled life of MMA legend Mark Kerr.
The film stands out as a raw, character-driven sports drama that subverts the typical genre clichés and delivers a unique cinematic experience.
Johnson sheds his superstar persona to embody the vulnerability, addiction, and pain of Mark Kerr with a surprising depth and believability. His physical and mental decline is intricately linked to his battles with addiction, and the film doesn’t shy away from portraying his lowest moments, including his toxic relationships and self-destructive behaviors. Watching him cry and break down is both shocking and moving, representing a true evolution in his acting career.
Emily Blunt is nearly unrecognizable as Dawn, Kerr’s partner, offering a strong and nuanced performance that is far more subdued than her usual roles. The dynamic between Mark and Dawn is central to the story: both characters are flawed and battling their own traumas, resulting in a relationship marked by conflict and miscommunication. Ryan Bader also surprises in his role, with a convincing transformation that adds depth to the supporting cast.
The film is structured around three distinct arcs: Mark Kerr’s personal journey, his tumultuous relationship with Dawn, and a symbolic storyline involving a porcelain vessel that is broken and mended, paralleling the characters’ efforts to repair their own lives. The narrative is philosophical and emotionally charged, constantly challenging the audience to understand both Kerr’s and Dawn’s perspectives.
The movie avoids sports drama clichés by focusing less on the action and more on the emotional turmoil and moral conflicts surrounding addiction, fame, and interpersonal relationships. The fight sequences are authentic and gritty, feeling more real than dramatized, and the overall tone is similar to a documentary in terms of handheld camerawork and minimalistic score.
Safdie’s direction is uncompromising, often opting for a raw hand-shot style that brings the audience uncomfortably close to the characters’ psychological breakdowns. While the cinematography may feel rough at times, it effectively enhances the film’s authenticity and intimacy, making the characters’ pain and vulnerability palpable.
The Smashing Machine is a career-defining role for Dwayne Johnson and a unique entry in modern sports biopics. It is strongly recommended for its raw authenticity, compelling performances, and deeply human story, earning a solid four out of five stars as per this reviewer. Watching Johnson and Blunt in these roles is a revelation, and the film is best experienced on the big screen for its emotional intensity and nuanced storytelling.
