Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, and Benny Safdie Boost Josh Brolin's 'Smashing Machine'
Emily Blunt shared why she cried the first time she saw Dwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr while campaigning for Oscar recognition for the duo's film, The Smashing Machine. Despite a disappointing box office, Benny Safdie’s film retains strong support. A24 is actively pursuing awards season prospects for the project.
On Tuesday night, Josh Brolin traveled from Santa Barbara to the Academy’s Lynwood Dunn Theater in Hollywood to moderate a lively Q&A with Safdie, Emily Blunt, and Dwayne Johnson. Brolin is among the film's enthusiastic fans.
Critical Reception
- "Insightful"
- "Smart, funny, easy to digest, and always newsworthy"
- "Always informative and honest"
The Story and Characters
Set mainly in the early 2000s, The Smashing Machine features Johnson as Mark Kerr, a pioneering UFC fighter who challenges typical stereotypes associated with the sport. Blunt plays Kerr’s wife, Dawn Staples, a woman struggling with her own challenges.
Achievements and Relationships
The film earned Safdie the Best Director award at the 2025 Venice Film Festival premiere. The Q&A event felt like a heartfelt celebration among talent. Though Brolin and Johnson, long-time friends, have never acted together, Brolin appeared with Blunt in Sicario, while Blunt and Johnson co-starred in Jungle Cruise.
"The box office may have been disappointing, but Benny Safdie’s ‘The Smashing Machine’ still has its champions."
"Set primarily in the early 00’s, ‘Smashing’ finds Johnson transformed into Mark Kerr, a pioneering UFC fighter."
Author's summary: Despite modest box office results, "The Smashing Machine" earns critical acclaim and awards buzz, highlighted by powerful performances and strong industry support.