The Smashing Machine Trailer & Fun Facts
The Smashing Machine Synopsis:
"The Smashing Machine" features Dwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr, exploring his incredible success as a two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion and his personal struggles outside the ring. The movie is anticipated to depict the emotional and physical challenges of a rigorous sport, highlighting Kerr's battles with addiction, his recovery process, and his unwavering struggle to maintain his professional and personal life.
Genre: Drama, Sports
Release Date: In theaters October 3rd, 2025
The Smashing Machine Fun Facts:
Dwayne Johnson's Dramatic Transformation:
Dwayne Johnson undergoes a major physical transformation to portray Mark Kerr, the real-life UFC and MMA legend. He even wears facial prosthetics and a wig to look more like Kerr.
Based on a True Story (and a Documentary):
The movie is a sports drama that tells the true story of Mark Kerr, who was featured in a highly praised HBO documentary from 2002 with the same title, "The Smashing Machine." This movie explores Kerr's remarkable achievements, his struggles with addiction to painkillers, and the challenging dynamics in his personal relationships.
A "Jungle Cruise" Reunion:
Emily Blunt plays the role of Dawn Staples, who is the former wife of Kerr, alongside Dwayne Johnson. This movie reunites the two actors, as they both worked together previously in Disney's movie "Jungle Cruise."
Directed by Benny Safdie:
The movie is written and directed by Benny Safdie, who is well-known for directing the powerful and highly praised movie "Uncut Gems." This indicates a deeper and more authentic representation of Kerr's life that goes beyond the usual sports drama.
Real-Life Fighters and Boxers:
To add to the authenticity, the movie features real-life fighters and boxers, including Ukrainian boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk as Igor Vovchanchyn, MMA legend Bas Rutten as himself, and Ryan Bader as Mark Coleman.
Struggle with Painkiller Addiction:
The movie showcases Kerr's struggle with painkiller addiction, a crucial element of his real-life story. The original documentary even showcased graphic scenes of Kerr injecting drugs with needles.
Dynamic Relationships:
The movie also explores the complicated and troubling relationship between Mark Kerr and Dawn Staples, highlighting their struggles with addiction.
Filming Locations:
The movie was shot in multiple locations, including New Mexico, Tokyo, and Vancouver, with the goal of showcasing genuine settings of Kerr's journey.