Who is Mark Kerr?
Mark Kerr is a former UFC champion from Ohio, known for his powerful fighting skills inside the cage. His career was marked by exceptional triumphs, often shadowed by struggles with addiction and personal hardships.
‘The Smashing Machine’: Biopic Details
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson stars in ‘The Smashing Machine,’ a gritty biographical drama directed by Benny Safdie of Uncut Gems fame. The film chronicles Kerr’s turbulent journey, blending his athletic achievements with his inner battles.
Film Premiere and Critical Reception
The movie premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2025, where critics applauded Johnson’s deeply emotional performance. To authentically portray Kerr, Johnson endured three to four hours daily in the makeup chair, using more than a dozen prosthetics.
“Johnson delivers one of his most emotionally raw performances.”
Box Office Performance and Streaming Release
Despite critical acclaim and Safdie’s authentic approach, ‘The Smashing Machine’ underperformed at the box office. Released on October 3, it earned only $20.2 million worldwide against a $40 million budget. By early November, the film had largely disappeared from theaters, leading to an earlier-than-expected digital release.
Current Availability
- The film is now available for streaming.
- This release follows the disappointing theatrical run.
Summary
‘The Smashing Machine’ offers a powerful and authentic portrayal of UFC legend Mark Kerr, showcasing Dwayne Johnson’s most vulnerable role despite its commercial struggles.