Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s new film, “The Smashing Machine,” has made a strong debut with critics, initially scoring a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. The A24-produced biopic tells the real-life story of former MMA fighter Mark Kerr, with Johnson taking on the lead role in what is being described as one of the most dramatic performances of his career. The initial perfect score was based on the first eleven reviews from critics.
At the time of this writing, the rating for the film now sits at a still-impressive 93% based on fourteen reviews, making it one of the best-reviewed projects of Johnson’s career. The positive critical reception is a sign that his move into more serious, character-driven roles is a successful one.
“The Smashing Machine” is set to hit theaters on October 3. The film also features a talented supporting cast, including Emily Blunt, who has worked with Johnson in the past. The film will also feature cameos from real-life combat sports figures such as Ryan Bader, Bas Rutten, and the current undisputed heavyweight boxing champion, Oleksandr Usyk.
In a recent interview with Variety, Johnson addressed this shift in his career, explaining why taking on a project like “The Smashing Machine” was so important to him. Reflecting on his long career in Hollywood, he said, “You don’t know what you’re capable of because you’re so pigeonholed.” His comments suggest a desire to break out of the action-hero mold that has defined his career and explore more complex, dramatic characters.
The story of Mark Kerr, a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion who battled an addiction to painkillers, is a powerful one. The Rock has also slimmed down and gone viral because of it.
