Dwayne Johnson’s ‘The Smashing Machine’ Earns Global Praise as New Details Emerge

Dwayne Johnson is back in the spotlight as The Smashing Machine draws strong praise around the world. The film arrives on October 3 and has already earned major awards during early screenings. Director Ben Safdie and Johnson have been promoting the movie and sharing how the project began.

The pair spoke about its long road to release. Safdie and Johnson also gave new insight into the physical and emotional work behind the film. According to Reuters, early viewers praised its raw tone and bold direction.

The Smashing Machine Gains Momentum Ahead of October Release

Johnson said he first pitched the idea to Safdie in 2019. He shared the story during an appearance on The Tonight Show. He said he loved Safdie’s style after seeing Uncut Gems. He reached out with the concept based on the original documentary.

Work paused when COVID-19 hit. Safdie even mailed Johnson a yellow sweater from the real Matt Kerr, but Johnson never got the package. Safdie thought the actor had ignored him. Emily Blunt later helped reconnect them, and the film moved forward. This story has added new buzz to the film’s rise.

Safdie told the Impaulsive podcast that he trusted Johnson with the role from the start. He said Johnson gained about 40 pounds of muscle to match Kerr’s size. He described the character as emotional and often difficult, and he wanted the film to show that side clearly.

The prosthetic work also became a key part of the transformation. Oscar-winning artist Kazu Hiro told Variety that he shaped the makeup around heavy action scenes. He said it was hard to keep the look stable during sweat, fights, and fast movement. His team built the makeup to hold up during every hit and grapple.

Why The Smashing Machine Matters for Johnson and for Audiences

The film marks a major shift for Johnson. He is known for action roles, but this performance focuses on pain, pressure, and inner conflict. Early reactions suggest that fans may see him in a new light. Critics have noted a deeper style that looks different from his past films.

The movie also expands Safdie’s work as a director. His last features already earned strong acclaim, and this film adds another sharp, emotional story to his list. The combination of Johnson’s physical intensity and Safdie’s style has become a talking point in early reviews.

The Smashing Machine stars Johnson, Emily Blunt, Bas Rutten, Dwan Staples, and Oleksandr Usyk. With its release date set, interest is expected to grow in the coming weeks.

The Smashing Machine is shaping up to be one of Johnson’s most important films. The early praise and strong team behind it suggest that the film could make a major impact when it hits theaters.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: What is The Smashing Machine about?

The film follows fighter Matt Kerr and his struggle inside and outside the ring. It shows his emotional battles and the pressure of the sport.

Q2: Why did Dwayne Johnson gain weight for the role?

Director Ben Safdie wanted him to match Kerr’s real size. Johnson added about 40 pounds of muscle to reach that look.

Q3: Who handled the prosthetics for the movie?

Kazu Hiro, an Oscar-winning prosthetics artist, led the work. He designed it to survive heavy movement and fight scenes.

Q4: When will The Smashing Machine be released?

The film is set to release on October 3 in theaters. Promotions have already begun worldwide.

Q5: Who stars in the film?

The cast includes Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, Bas Rutten, Dwan Staples, and Oleksandr Usyk. Each plays a key part in the story.