Dwayne Johnson is set to astonish audiences with his transformative portrayal of MMA icon Mark Kerr in Benny Safdie’s upcoming A24 drama, The Smashing Machine. In the newly released first look, Johnson is nearly unrecognizable, thanks to a combination of a toned muscular physique and facial prosthetics. The film also stars Emily Blunt as Kerr’s wife, Dawn Staples, reuniting her with Johnson following their collaboration in Jungle Cruise.
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The Smashing Machine delves into the life of Mark Kerr, a legendary figure in mixed martial arts who battled addiction and marital issues while achieving remarkable success in the sport. Kerr’s illustrious career includes being a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion and a World Vale Tudo Championship tournament winner.
Johnson’s commitment to the role is evident in his physical transformation and the use of facial prosthetics to accurately depict Kerr. This dramatic change showcases Johnson’s dedication to bringing authenticity to the portrayal of the complex and troubled fighter.
Emily Blunt’s role as Dawn Staples adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the personal struggles and triumphs that Kerr faced outside the ring. The dynamic between Johnson and Blunt is expected to bring emotional weight to the story, exploring the impact of Kerr’s career on his personal life.
The Smashing Machine promises to offer a gripping and intimate look at the life of Mark Kerr, providing insight into the world of mixed martial arts and the personal demons that athletes often face. With the combined talents of Johnson, Blunt, and Safdie, the film is poised to be a compelling addition to A24’s lineup.
