The Smashing Machine
If you're into gritty sports dramas with a real emotional punch, The Smashing Machine might be right up your alley. Directed, written, and edited by Benny Safdie, this biographical film dives into the turbulent life of Mark Kerr, a legendary figure in the world of mixed martial arts. Dwayne Johnson takes on the role of Kerr, delivering a performance that critics have called transformative and deeply committed. Emily Blunt stars alongside him as Dawn Staples, Kerr’s girlfriend, in a relationship that’s as intense and complicated as his career in the ring.
Set in the late 1990s, the film follows Kerr’s rise in the MMA world while also exploring his personal battles—most notably, his struggle with opioid addiction and a volatile relationship with Dawn. It’s not just about the fights in the ring; it’s about the fights outside of it too. The story doesn’t shy away from the darker corners of Kerr’s life, making it a raw and emotional ride.
The Smashing Machine had its world premiere at the Venice International Film Festival, where it earned Safdie the Silver Lion for Best Director. It later screened at the Toronto International Film Festival and was released in theaters in early October 2025. While it didn’t smash the box office—earning around $20 million on a $50 million budget—it did win over many critics and fans of character-driven sports films.
Visually, the film stands out with its unique mix of 16mm, 70mm, and even VHS footage, giving it a gritty, almost documentary-like feel. The score by Nala Sinephro, along with a standout track by Cleaners from Venus, adds to the emotional depth of the story.
This movie is definitely for fans of intense, character-focused dramas and those who appreciate a more grounded, realistic take on sports legends. If you're looking for a feel-good underdog story with a neat bow at the end, this might not be your thing. But if you're into stories that explore the highs and lows of fame, addiction, and redemption, The Smashing Machine delivers a powerful punch.
Just be ready for a heavy, emotional journey—it’s not all knockouts and glory. But for those who stick with it, there’s a lot to take away.
Showtimes in English at Cinemas in Paris
There are currently no scheduled showings of The Smashing Machine in Paris.
The movie 'The Smashing Machine' is shown in English if it is a movie in English originally - or with English subtitles, if it is NOT a movie with original audio in English.
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