Dwayne Johnson Pursues Oscar with 'The Smashing Machine'

Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson is making a dramatic shift in his career with 'The Smashing Machine,' an A24 biopic about UFC champion Mark Kerr, where he tackles themes of addiction and personal struggle. Directed by Benny Safdie in his solo debut, the film explores Kerr's rise in the MMA world alongside his battles with painkiller addiction and a turbulent relationship with his girlfriend, portrayed by Emily Blunt. The project is generating Oscar buzz, representing Johnson's most serious effort yet at awards recognition and a departure from his blockbuster action roles. The film's trailer and promotional material highlight Johnson's physical transformation and commitment to the role, with industry insiders considering it a potential awards contender. Johnson has stated his desire to pursue more meaningful roles that explore humanity and pain, though he doesn't intend to abandon his action roots entirely. 'The Smashing Machine' is scheduled for theatrical release on October 3.