The Smashing Machine

If you're into intense sports dramas with a raw emotional core, The Smashing Machine might just be your next must-watch. Directed, written, and edited by Benny Safdie, this biographical film dives into the life of Mark Kerr, a real-life MMA legend from the late '90s. Dwayne Johnson takes on the lead role, delivering a performance that’s been widely praised for its depth and transformation. Emily Blunt stars alongside him as Dawn Staples, Kerr’s girlfriend, in a relationship that’s as turbulent as it is central to the story.

The movie follows Kerr’s rise in the world of mixed martial arts, but it’s not just about the fights in the ring. It’s also about the battles outside of it—his struggle with opioid addiction, the emotional toll of fame, and the strain on his personal life. The film doesn’t shy away from the darker corners of Kerr’s journey, making it a gritty and often heavy watch. But that’s also what gives it its punch.

Shot on a mix of 16mm, 70mm, and even VHS, the film has a raw, almost documentary-like feel that adds to its authenticity. Safdie’s direction brings a unique visual style, and the score by Belgian musician Nala Sinephro adds a haunting layer to the emotional beats.

The Smashing Machine premiered at the Venice Film Festival, where it won the Silver Lion for Best Director, and later screened at TIFF. Critics have generally responded positively, with Rotten Tomatoes showing a 71% approval rating and Metacritic giving it a 65. While some viewers found the narrative a bit uneven, most agree that Johnson’s performance is a standout.

That said, this isn’t a film for everyone. If you’re looking for a feel-good sports movie or a fast-paced action flick, this might not hit the mark. It’s more of a slow-burn character study that digs deep into addiction, identity, and redemption. The box office numbers reflect that—it didn’t exactly smash records, but it’s found a solid audience among fans of serious drama and sports history.

So, if you’re into real-life stories, complex characters, and don’t mind a bit of emotional heavy lifting, The Smashing Machine is worth checking out. Just don’t expect a typical underdog sports movie—this one hits a little harder.