Dwayne Johnson Is Completely Unrecognizable in Shocking New Role — See His Jaw-Dropping Transformation for A24’s “The Smashing Machine”
Dwayne Johnson is stepping into unfamiliar territory with “The Smashing Machine“, a gritty, character-driven drama from A24 that marks a major departure from his usual action-packed roles. Directed by Benny Safdie (“Uncut Gems”), the film tells the raw and emotional story of UFC legend Mark Kerr — a dominant fighter in the early 2000s whose biggest battles often took place outside the ring, against addiction, pressure, and personal demons.
Dwayne Johnson Transforms For “The Smashing Machine”
To play Kerr, Johnson undergoes a dramatic transformation — both physically and emotionally. The trailer reveals him in a wig and prosthetics that obscure his trademark look, but what really stands out is the emotional depth he brings to the role. Far from his larger-than-life persona, Johnson taps into the vulnerability of a man struggling to keep it together under the weight of fame, pain, and high expectations.
“The Smashing Machine” Production
This story has been years in the making. Johnson’s production company, Seven Bucks Productions, acquired the rights to Kerr’s life in 2019. The partnership with indie powerhouse A24 was announced in 2023, signaling a serious commitment to authenticity and powerful storytelling. Safdie’s direction — his first solo effort without his brother Josh — focuses on the highs and lows of Kerr’s career during the wild early days of MMA, when the sport was still finding its identity.
Matt Kerr Background
Mark Kerr wasn’t just a champion — he was a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament winner and one of the sport’s earliest icons. But beneath the surface, he was grappling with painkiller addiction and emotional struggles that nearly derailed his life. Johnson’s portrayal doesn’t shy away from the dark corners of Kerr’s story, instead offering a raw, human look at what it means to chase greatness while falling apart inside.
“The Smashing Machine” Cast
The film also features a strong supporting cast. Emily Blunt plays Kerr’s girlfriend, Dawn Staples, adding emotional weight and chemistry to the narrative. This marks a reunion for Johnson and Blunt after their work on “Jungle Cruise”. Real-life fighters Ryan Bader, Bas Rutten, and Oleksandr Usyk also appear, grounding the story in authenticity and bringing a real-world edge to the fight scenes.
With A24’s reputation for thought-provoking, visually compelling films, “The Smashing Machine” feels like a turning point for Johnson. He’s been open about wanting to explore more grounded, human stories — and this project gives him the space to do just that. Early buzz around the trailer has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans and critics praising Johnson’s emotional range and the physical dedication he poured into the role — including injuries sustained during filming.
“The Smashing Machine” hits theaters on October 3, 2025, just ahead of awards season. With a powerful story, a talented cast, and a reinvented Dwayne Johnson at its center, this film could be one of the year’s most surprising and impactful releases.
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