Benny Safdie’s “The Smashing Machine” stars Dwayne Johnson as MMA fighter Mark Kerr. This is said to be Johnson’s first independent film since 2005’s “Southland Tales,” and the first in a string of arthouse roles Johnson is set to embark on.
Back in May 2024, an image was released of Johnson as Kerr, and although taken at a fair distance, it revealed a transformation that made the actor look damn-near unrecognizable. Johnson covered up his signature tattoos, added a wig, and appeared to put on some heavy face makeup to look the part.
Some new on-set images have been posted via Kerr’s Instagram; they confirm Johnson’s indistinguishable look — you can see them below. Kerr’s career peaked during the “no-holds-barred era of the UFC,” in the early 2000s. His life, filled with substance abuse addiction, was the topic of an insightful 2002 documentary, “The Smashing Machine: The Life and Times of Extreme Fighter Mark Kerr.”
In the meantime, ‘Smashing Machine’ is set for October 3 release via A24. Based on what I’ve heard, this will be a tricky movie for A24 to market. It should be noted that the film is not a typical biopic and is said to be “indescribable in tone and style.” You can read more about it here.
As expected, Snyder's latest is being torn apart by TIFF attendees. No mercy given. The film, which had its world premiere this evening, is being called by some one of the worst movies to ever premiere at the festival.