Dwayne Johnson, the WWE legend turned Hollywood star, was visibly emotional after the world premiere of his new biopic “The Smashing Machine” at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 1, 2025. The film, depicting the life of former amateur wrestler and mixed martial arts fighter Mark Kerr, received a standing ovation, leaving Johnson deeply touched.
A Powerful Debut for a Gritty MMA Biopic
Directed, co-produced, and edited by Benny Safdie, “The Smashing Machine” chronicles the compelling and turbulent journey of Mark Kerr, a man celebrated for his dominance inside the cage and his struggles outside it. Johnson’s portrayal captures Kerr’s physical prowess alongside his emotional vulnerabilities, a balance that director Safdie emphasized as central to the film’s message.
During the premiere, Johnson was seen wiping away tears, overwhelmed by the audience’s reception. His performance, alongside a strong supporting cast including Emily Blunt as Kerr’s wife Dawn Staples and MMA stars like Ryan Bader and Bas Rutten playing themselves, earned critical praise for its authentic and empathetic storytelling.
The Making of ‘The Smashing Machine’
The film was produced by Out for the Count Productions and Seven Bucks Productions (Johnson’s own company), a collaboration that aimed to translate the raw intensity of MMA fighting and the emotional cost behind the scenes onto the big screen. The story centers not just on Kerr’s fights but on his personal battles with addiction and the highs and lows that accompany a life in combat sports.
Director Benny Safdie described the project as an exercise in “Radical Empathy,” seeking to humanize a figure often seen simply as a warrior. Safdie said, “Mark Kerr truly was The Smashing Machine. His strength wasn’t just physical; it was emotional and that’s what we wanted to capture. Our heroes bleed just like everyone else”.
WWE Community Reacts with Pride
According to a WWE insider familiar with Johnson’s deep ties to the wrestling world, the film’s reception has been a source of pride for the WWE community. “Dwayne has always been about telling stories that inspire beyond the wrestling ring. Seeing him pour his heart into this role and get that kind of response is huge,” the source said.
This emotional response from both Johnson and the audience highlights the crossover appeal that Johnson’s wrestling background brings. Fans of WWE and MMA alike are drawn to the film, which blends sports drama with a poignant exploration of personal struggle.
What This Means for Dwayne Johnson’s Career
“The Smashing Machine” marks a significant shift for Johnson, who has typically been cast in blockbuster action roles. Here, he embraces a character that requires vulnerability and emotional depth over sheer physicality, showing his versatility as an actor.
Industry watchers believe the positive response at Venice could set the tone for a strong awards season push. The film is nominated for the prestigious Golden Lion, and its U.S. release is scheduled for October 3, 2025, by A24.