The Smashing Machine Review: Dwayne Johnson’s Boldest Transformation Yet

From “The Rock” to Mark Kerr: A Total Transformation

Dwayne Johnson truly reinvents himself in The Smashing Machine. At first, we see his familiar wit, charm, and humor shine through — the traits audiences have come to love. He even brings levity to moments not meant to provide laughs, brightening the screen with his natural charisma. But as the film progresses, Johnson sheds his superstar persona and fully evolves into Mark Kerr. His demeanor, appearance, and emotional depth come together seamlessly, delivering a performance that feels raw and lived-in. This is not just a role — it’s a total transformation.

Brutality in the Cage and the Psychology of Pain

The MMA combat on display is unrelenting. The athleticism is authentic, the physical toll is undeniable, and the sound effects let you feel every punch, even as the blood is rolled back from the screen. What elevates the experience is the psychological weight. Viewers are pulled into Kerr’s fragile state of mind, where mental wellbeing is tested as brutally outside the cage as within it. This mental strain stresses the viewer as much as it engages them, making the film more than a fight story — it’s a psychological gauntlet.

Emily Blunt Steals Scenes with Toxic Brilliance

While Johnson commands attention, Emily Blunt is equally magnetic. As Dawn Staples, Kerr’s girlfriend, she shines in every scene, delivering volatility, vulnerability, and fire. Their tug-of-war relationship becomes one of the film’s most gripping threads. Blunt’s performance is strong enough to warrant real awards-season talk.

Ryan Bader Debuts as Mark Coleman

In a surprising and impressive turn, MMA legend Ryan Bader makes his acting debut as Mark Coleman. His physicality is spot-on, but it’s his emotional depth that surprises most. Bader brings Coleman to life with authenticity and passion, leaving the impression that he could have a promising acting career ahead of him. The dynamic between Kerr and Coleman adds another layer of history to the story, making you want to see even more from Coleman’s perspective.

Flaws in the Fight: Pacing and Sound Choices

For all its intensity, The Smashing Machine isn’t flawless. Some scenes feel overextended, with shots lingering longer than necessary and occasionally breaking narrative momentum. The score also falters at times, particularly because the sound design is already doing so much heavy lifting. When the raw audio of strikes and silence carries the atmosphere so well, the music can feel mismatched.

More Than Just Kerr: A Love Letter to MMA

This film is more than a biopic — it’s a love letter to the pioneers of MMA. While Kerr’s story is the focus, Coleman’s importance looms large. The film leaves you wishing for more from his vantage point, a fuller acknowledgment of his contributions to the sport. Still, the tribute resonates as both brutal and heartfelt, capturing the essence of a generation of fighters who paved the way.

Cameos and Crossovers: Oleksandr Usyk Impresses

The film also gets a boost from boxing royalty. Three-time undisputed world champion Oleksandr Usyk shows up in a standout cameo that underscores his status as one of the greatest combat athletes alive. His presence adds authenticity and connects the film to the broader combat sports world.

Awards Buzz or Premature Hype?

There’s already talk of Oscar buzz swirling around Johnson’s performance. While it may be too early to predict wins, what’s undeniable is that this is a breakout dramatic role that should make Hollywood take him seriously as more than just a blockbuster star. His depth and range here prove he can thrive in character-driven drama.

Benny Safdie’s Gritty Direction

Director Benny Safdie infuses the film with grit and tension. Much like his earlier work, he captures both chaos and intimacy, refusing to glamorize the violence while showing the fragile humanity underneath. Directed with gritty precision, the film adapts the acclaimed documentary The Smashing Machine: The Life and Times of Extreme Fighter Mark Kerr. His approach makes the film feel almost documentary-like at times, grounding it in realism while heightening the emotional impact.

Final Verdict: A Career-Defining Moment

The Smashing Machine is brutal, emotional, and unforgettable. With Johnson in the lead, Emily Blunt as Dawn Staples, and MMA legend Ryan Bader making his acting debut as Mark Coleman, the movie fuses Hollywood storytelling with authentic MMA blood and sweat. Johnson delivers a career-defining performance, Emily Blunt steals scenes with fiery brilliance, and Ryan Bader surprises as Mark Coleman in an impressive debut. Safdie’s direction, paired with Usyk’s cameo and a visceral focus on both body and mind, makes this more than just a sports movie — it’s a powerful exploration of resilience, identity, and the cost of greatness.