The Smashing Machine 2025: Dwayne Johnson’s Biopic Wins at Venice

The Smashing Machine (2025) – Dwayne Johnson’s MMA Biopic Wins Big at Venice

When The Smashing Machine premiered at the Venice International Film Festival on September 1, 2025, it wasn’t just another sports drama on the calendar—it was the rebirth of a true story told with grit and emotion. Directed by Benny Safdie and headlined by global star Dwayne Johnson, the film dives into the turbulent life of legendary MMA fighter Mark Kerr.

Audiences in Venice witnessed Johnson in a transformative role that critics are already calling one of the best performances of his career. The movie went on to win the Silver Lion, a major recognition that sets the tone for its worldwide release. Distributed by A24, The Smashing Machine officially hit U.S. theaters on October 3, 2025.

A Story Rooted in Reality

Based on the acclaimed 2002 documentary The Smashing Machine: The Life and Times of Extreme Fighter Mark Kerr, the film explores the highs and lows of one of the most celebrated yet troubled figures in mixed martial arts history. Johnson portrays Kerr, an accomplished wrestler whose rise in MMA came at the cost of personal struggles, including addiction, injuries, and complicated relationships.

Emily Blunt stars as Dawn Staples, Kerr’s wife at the time, adding emotional depth to the fighter’s turbulent journey. The supporting cast includes Ryan Bader as fellow fighter Mark Coleman, Bas Rutten appearing as himself, and heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk stepping into the role of Igor Vovchanchyn.

Safdie, known for his raw and immersive filmmaking style, not only directed but also co-wrote, co-produced, and even edited the film. His vision was brought to life through collaborations with A24, Seven Bucks Productions, and Out for the Count, while the hauntingly unique score was composed by Belgian musician Nala Sinephro.

Production Journey

The project was first confirmed in December 2023, sparking buzz among fight fans and movie lovers alike. Filming began in May 2024 and wrapped up in August of the same year, with locations spanning from New Mexico to Tokyo and Vancouver. The production made bold stylistic choices, shooting primarily on 16mm film and using IMAX 70mm for select sequences, alongside VHS for a raw documentary feel.

By early 2025, the first trailer was released online, quickly going viral and boosting anticipation. On red carpets and in interviews, Johnson emphasized how personal the role was to him—calling Mark Kerr’s journey a story about resilience, pain, and redemption.

Reception and Reviews

Critics have largely praised The Smashing Machine for its intensity and authenticity. According to Rotten Tomatoes, 73% of reviewers gave it a positive rating, while Metacritic scored it 69 out of 100, labeling it as “generally favorable.”

The consensus among critics is that Johnson’s performance breaks away from his typical blockbuster image, offering a nuanced portrayal that doesn’t shy away from vulnerability. Safdie’s direction has also been hailed as bold, with his Silver Lion win cementing his reputation as a filmmaker unafraid of unconventional storytelling.

Where to Watch The Smashing Machine

For those asking “The Smashing Machine where to watch?”, the film is currently playing in theaters across the United States and Canada following its October 3 release. Industry insiders suggest it will later be available on streaming platforms, with A24 expected to announce digital and on-demand options in the coming months. Fans eager to watch The Smashing Machine online free may need to wait until the official streaming rollout.

Looking Ahead

With awards buzz already surrounding it, The Smashing Machine is likely to remain in the spotlight well into 2026. The film bridges the world of MMA with mainstream cinema, offering both fight fans and general audiences a gripping look at the price of greatness.

As more screenings and international releases are expected, the story of Mark Kerr—the real “Smashing Machine”—continues to inspire conversations about resilience, fame, and the human cost of sports glory.

Fans searching for updates on Mark Kerr The Smashing Machine, streaming details, and ways to watch The Smashing Machine online should stay tuned, as more announcements from A24 are expected soon.