The Smashing Machine

The Smashing Machine is one of the many fighter biopics to have come out in the last years. We're getting used to the scheme: the hero needs to fight in and out of the ring, to keep his reputation, family, and health together. The Smashing Machine is not a groundbreaking story, but if A24 and Benny Safdie work on it, you better pay attention.

The Smashing Machine feels fresh without trying too hard. The movie flows naturally, the direction and photography are organic to every scene. The pace is immersive just like in Good Time and Uncut Gems. Mike Kerr's story is simply well told, it's credible, it's relatable.

The score of the movie deserves a few words. The choice of using jazz during the MMA fights is an unexpected match. Its unpredictable twists and sudden percussions perfectly reflect the art of MMA while giving it more grace than we are used to seeing it depicted with.

But the cake goes to the incredible performance of Dwayne Johnson, who disappears behind his character. Apart from the physical modifications required for the role, he manages to be touching and even moving. He is credible, he feels vulnerable. A masterful work. The relationship scenes with the girlfriend (Emily Blunt) are some of the most credible and nerve wracking couple disagreements seen on the big screen.

The Smashing Machine might not be a story of particular interest for many, but when a movie is so tastefully and masterfully executed, we can only be grateful to witness it.

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The Smashing Machine is one of the most powerful and authentic sports documentaries I have ever watched. Unlike many other films about fighting or athletics, this one does not just glorify victory or physical strength. Instead, it takes us deep into the personal struggles of Mark Kerr, a legendary mixed martial arts fighter who was both admired and troubled at the same time. What impressed me most was the honesty of the storytelling. The film does not try to hide Kerr's flaws or weaknesses. It shows his battles with addiction, his complicated relationships, and the intense pressure that comes with being a professional fighter.

For me, the most striking part was how vulnerable he looked outside the ring. Inside the cage, he was almost unstoppable, a true warrior. But outside, he was a human being dealing with pain, fear, and confusion. This contrast made the film very emotional and relatable. It reminded me that even the strongest people we admire are not perfect and can suffer deeply.

I also appreciated how the documentary captured the atmosphere of MMA in the late 1990s, when the sport was still raw and less commercialized. It gave me a sense of history and showed how much fighters had to sacrifice when there was not much money or fame involved yet.

Overall, The Smashing Machine is not just about fighting; it is about the human spirit, the cost of ambition, and the price of living under constant pressure. It left me with respect for Mark Kerr, not only for his strength but also for his honesty in facing his demons. In my opinion, this documentary is essential viewing for anyone who wants to understand the reality behind the glamorous image of combat.

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson has done a lot in his career-action blockbusters, comedies, even family films-but nothing prepared me for the raw, unfiltered power of The Smashing Machine. For me, this movie isn't just about Mark Kerr's story. It's about Johnson finally proving himself as one of the great actors of his generation. Hence, my personal title: Redemption of the Rock!

From the very first frame, Benny Safdie's direction pulls you into a world of blood, sweat, and broken dreams. The fight sequences are brutal yet beautiful, shot on grainy 16mm film that makes you feel like you're inside the cage. But the real fight here isn't against an opponent-it's Kerr battling himself, his addictions, and the weight of expectations.

Johnson completely disappears into the role. The prosthetics, the physicality, the mannerisms-he is unrecognizable. More importantly, he lets go of the Hollywood superhero image and embraces vulnerability. There are moments where you can see the pain in his eyes, the quiet collapse of a man who seems unstoppable in the ring but fragile in his own home. This is acting on a whole new level.

Emily Blunt also deserves massive credit. As Dawn Staples, she balances compassion with exhaustion, embodying the emotional toll of living with someone who can destroy himself as quickly as he destroys opponents. Their chemistry is heartbreaking, messy, and utterly real.

The audience at Venice gave the film a 15-minute standing ovation, and I can see why. It's not just a sports movie-it's a tragedy, a redemption story, and an exploration of what it means to be human when your identity is tied to strength. For me, this is the role that redeems Johnson as more than just a global superstar. It's his proof that he's an actor who can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best.

The Smashing Machine isn't just a film-it's an experience. Brutal, honest, and unforgettable. If you only know Johnson as "The Rock," prepare to have your perspective shattered. 10/10.

The Smashing Machine is a powerful and emotionally gripping sports drama that goes far beyond the world of fighting. The film doesn't just showcase the brutality of combat sports-it dives deep into the struggles, sacrifices, and humanity behind them.

One of the standout elements is the acting, especially by Dwayne Johnson. He delivers one of his most mature and layered performances to date. Johnson portrays the complexity of a fighter torn between personal demons and professional battles with both strength and vulnerability. His performance adds real heart to the story, making the audience feel every triumph and every setback.

The storytelling is raw yet inspiring, with strong direction and a grounded script that highlights not just the physical toll of the sport but also the emotional and psychological weight carried by athletes.

Overall, The Smashing Machine is more than just a sports film-it's an intense character study filled with grit, heart, and unforgettable performances. Highly recommended, especially if you appreciate powerful acting and stories about resilience.

The is raw and emotional movie,and Dwayne Johnson performance is one of the best performance in cinema history. Movie starts with the story of Mark Kerr(former ufc champion),how he struggle with and challenges he faced after addicted to drugs. Emily blunt did an excellent job as Mark Kerr girlfriend. She puts an example of how a girlfriend should treat her man in his sad days.thats it.