'The Smashing Machine' is now streaming: How to watch it at home
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson takes a dramatic turn in The Smashing Machine, portraying MMA fighter Mark Kerr in one of his most intense roles to date. Known for his action-comedy persona, Johnson delivers a powerful performance in this biographical drama.
The film premiered at the 2025 Venice International Film Festival and later screened at the Toronto International Film Festival, where it received largely positive acclaim. Mashable’s film editor Kristy Puchko praised Johnson’s compelling portrayal of Kerr.
Cast and Key Players
- Emily Blunt as Dawn Staples, Kerr’s partner.
- Ryan Bader as UFC champion Mark Coleman.
- Oleksandr Usyk as MMA fighter Igor Vovchanchyn.
Story and Direction
Written and directed by Benny Safdie, best known for Uncut Gems, this true-to-life drama explores Mark Kerr’s rise and struggles during the early days of the UFC in the 1990s. The film travels between the U.S. and Japan, following Kerr’s journey through the Pride FC competition while balancing his personal and romantic hardships.
"The Smashing Machine may not have been a knockout at the box office, but Johnson's transformation into Mark Kerr and his performance alone make it worth watching."
Where to Watch
If you didn’t catch it in theaters, The Smashing Machine is now available to stream at home, making it easy to experience Johnson’s deeply human portrayal of a fighter torn between fame and vulnerability.
Author’s Summary: A gripping sports drama led by Dwayne Johnson, The Smashing Machine blends raw emotion with real-life grit to deliver a moving portrait of ambition and struggle.