The first trailer for The Smashing Machine has debuted, showcasing Dwayne Johnson like audiences have never seen him before. Directed by Benny Safdie and produced by A24, the film features Johnson stepping away from his usual blockbuster action roles and portraying MMA legend Mark Kerr, famously known as “The Smashing Machine.”
Kerr became a prominent figure in mixed martial arts, competing at the highest level in promotions such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and Japan’s Pride Fighting Championships. The Smashing Machine will explore Kerr’s dramatic rise, his personal battles, and his impact on the sport.
Johnson is clearly pursuing a more dramatic path with this project, which could allow him to demonstrate a new range as an actor and possibly silence critics who pigeonhole him as purely an action star.
Emily Blunt co-stars as Kerr’s then-wife, Dawn Staples, while the supporting cast features Ryan Bader as Mark Coleman, Lyndsey Gavin as Elizabeth Coleman, Bas Rutten playing himself, and Oleksandr Usyk as Igor Vovchanchyn, among others.
UFC President Dana White, who closely observed Johnson’s preparation for the role, previously shared with Collider his belief that this project could propel Johnson toward Oscar consideration:
“The Rock will kill this. He will nail this role. I know how serious he’s taking this, I know who’s working with him, and I know how hard he’s working on this film. I think this could be the opportunity for The Rock to actually be nominated for an Oscar.”
The Smashing Machine hits theaters on October 3, 2025.