Dwayne Johnson shared that shooting for The Smashing Machine was one of his toughest experiences. In an interview with Vanity Fair, cited by Variety, he revealed that it took him nearly three to four hours each day to apply prosthetics for his role.
Facing Fear and Vulnerability
The actor admitted he had moments of deep doubt during filming. “It was very real. I had not experienced that in a very, very, very long time, where I was really scared and thinking, ‘I don’t know if I can do this. Can I do this?’” Johnson said. He explained that in the past he may have avoided such roles due to fear, but this film pushed him to embrace raw, gritty storytelling.
Playing UFC Champion Mark Kerr
Johnson stars as two-time UFC heavyweight champion Mark Kerr. The biographical drama portrays Kerr’s career highs along with his personal struggles, including substance abuse issues and a troubled relationship with his wife, Dawn, played by Emily Blunt. Johnson credited his strong friendship with Blunt built during their collaboration on Jungle Cruise for helping him explore a more vulnerable side of his performance. Their real-life bond, he said, made the difficult scenes more authentic.
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Supporting Cast and Release
Alongside Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt, the film features a strong ensemble cast. German actress Nina Hoss, known for her powerful performances in Tár and Barbara, plays a crucial role in bringing depth to the narrative. Imogen Poots, celebrated for her versatility in both independent films and dramas, adds intensity to the story, while Tom Bateman, recognized from Murder on the Orient Express and Behind Her Eyes, takes on another significant character in Kerr’s journey.
The Smashing Machine is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Benny Safdie, who is known for his raw and immersive style of storytelling. The movie is expected to carry the same emotional weight and realism that has defined his earlier works.
The highly anticipated biographical drama will have its world premiere in competition at the Venice Film Festival, one of the most prestigious platforms for international cinema. Following its festival debut, the film is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on October 3, where it is already being seen as a potential awards contender due to its powerhouse performances and gripping storyline.
Johnson Reflects on Culture and Family
Dwayne Johnson not only spoke about the emotional and physically demanding journey of portraying UFC champion Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine, but he also reflected on his personal connection to culture and family. He shared that he felt blessed to have performed the sacred Samoan dance, Taualuga, on stage with his mother, daughters, and extended family, calling it a deeply spiritual and emotional experience.
He explained that Samoan men proudly display their tatau (tattoos), while women show their malu as a mark of tradition, and described how slapping the ground was his way of paying respect to the sacredness of the moment. According to him, such experiences remind him of the importance of heritage, family bonds, and staying rooted despite a busy life.
This personal reflection adds another layer to Johnson’s portrayal in The Smashing Machine, where he steps into the role of a fighter who not only battles in the ring but also struggles with vulnerability, identity, and personal demons. For Johnson, both the film and his cultural expression highlight themes of strength, resilience, and the courage to embrace one’s true self.
I was blessed to have this very special moment on stage with my mom, my daughters, and our aiga (family) — dancing our Samoan culture’s sacred dance, the Taualuga.
It’s custom for Samoan men to take their shirts off to proudly show our Polynesian tatau (tattoo) and the intricate… pic.twitter.com/M5CiPN9phP
— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) August 25, 2025
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