Introduction
In a cinematic landscape overflowing with action-packed blockbusters, 'The Smashing Machine', directed by Benny Safdie, attempts to carve its niche by focusing on the internal struggles of mixed martial arts fighter Mark Kerr, portrayed by the charismatic Dwayne Johnson. Johnson's performance certainly shines, turning many heads with depth and emotional nuance, but does the film reflect the complexity of its subject, or does it falter in a predictable narrative?
The Star and the Story
Dwayne Johnson, known for his bombastic roles in high-octane thrillers and light-hearted comedies, channels a more understated performance in 'The Smashing Machine'. Here, he plays Mark Kerr, a fighter whose greatest battles are fought within himself. This duality makes the film compelling, especially since Johnson's usual charm pivots toward vulnerability, shedding light on a man hidden beneath layers of bravado and muscle.
The Craft behind the Camera
Director Benny Safdie, known for gritty and frenetic narratives like 'Uncut Gems', brings his signature style to this adaptation of John Hyams's documentary. Shot using a fusion of VHS, 16mm, and 65mm, the film's texture echoes Kerr's tumultuous journey from conquering the ring to grappling with substance abuse and personal chaos. The eclectic cinematography serves not only as a backdrop but as an emotional conduit, transporting audiences inside Kerr's psyche.
“The Smashing Machine” harnesses all qualities typical of Johnson but offers material that allows him to explore new depths.
The Heart of the Matter: Performance and Relationships
While Johnson is undeniably magnetic, it's the supporting characters that add layers to the narrative fabric. Emily Blunt, as Kerr's girlfriend Dawn, is an impressive talent somewhat confined by the archetypal role of the supportive partner. Blunt's performance evokes sympathy; however, the relationship dynamics remain pedestrian, primarily serving to reflect on Kerr's struggles rather than explore deeper themes. The true emotional core seems to reside in the camaraderie between Kerr and fellow fighter Mark Coleman, played by Ryan Bader. Their friendship, fraught with tensions and loyalties, might have made for a more compelling storyline, offering a fresh take on male relationships in sports.
The Pitfalls of Narrative Fidelity
One of the most significant challenges with 'The Smashing Machine' lies in its adherence to the documentary format, often resulting in a repetitiveness that diminishes the storytelling impact. Kerr's cycle of fight and return feels more formulaic than engaging, a narrative device that can strain viewer interest, especially when disconnected from dramatic intensity. While real-life stories add authenticity, they also require the art of storytelling to transform everyday monotony into cinematic gold. Unfortunately, this film does not quite achieve that spark of alchemy.
Concluding Thoughts: A Duality of Success and Failure
'The Smashing Machine' ultimately presents a dichotomy—Dwayne Johnson delivers a potent and deeply felt performance, yet the film fails to rise to the occasion with a narrative that resonates as powerfully as it could. By the end, while it raises awareness about the turbulent lives of fighters, the film begs for a more riveting exploration of the emotional battles that lie beyond the ring. As such, it likens itself more to a highlight reel than a fully fleshed-out saga—a collection of moments gifted by a skilled lead actor without flowing into an engaging whole.
The film concludes by highlighting the ongoing relevance of the sport Kerr pioneered, tethering today's fighters to their predecessors. In this way, the journey of understanding the psyche of a fighter becomes akin to delving into the complexities of any challenging profession—including those of performers in Hollywood.
More about the Film
The Smashing Machine
Rated R for drug use, profanity, domestic violence, and plenty of smashing. Running time: 2 hours 3 minutes. In theaters.
Find Tickets to see the film and delve into the world of Mark Kerr.
Source reference: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/02/movies/smashing-machine-review.html
