Benny Safdie’s The Smashing Machine, produced by A24, is a deeply human exploration of the brutal world of mixed martial arts, anchored by a compelling story that transcends the octagon. This biographical drama about MMA fighter Mark Kerr, portrayed by Dwayne Johnson, delves into the physical and emotional toll of a life defined by combat, love, and personal demons. Safdie, stepping out from his collaborative work with the Safdie Brothers, proves his directorial prowess, crafting a story that balances raw intensity with vulnerability. The film’s gritty authenticity, paired with A24’s signature atmospheric touch, makes it a standout in the sports drama genre.
The story of The Smashing Machine follows Mark Kerr at the peak of his career in the late 1990s, navigating the world of MMA while grappling with addiction, fame, and a turbulent personal life. The screenplay, penned with care, avoids the clichés of sports biopics, opting instead for a character-driven narrative that feels quite intimate. Safdie’s direction infuses the film with a documentary-like realism, capturing the chaos of early MMA events while grounding the audience in Kerr’s internal struggles.
Dwayne Johnson’s performance as Mark Kerr is a testament to his commitment to the role, pouring every ounce of his charisma and physicality into the character. Johnson embodies Kerr’s larger-than-life presence, from his commanding stature in the ring to his quieter, more vulnerable moments off it. However, there’s an undeniable challenge in casting such a recognizable star: even with his best efforts, Johnson’s iconic persona occasionally overshadows Kerr’s complexity.
In contrast, Emily Blunt’s portrayal of Dawn Staples, Kerr’s partner, is nothing short of a revelation. Blunt delivers a performance so layered and magnetic that it elevates the entire film. Her depiction of Dawn is a masterclass in subtlety and strength, capturing a woman caught between unwavering love and the frustration of watching someone she cares about spiral. Blunt’s ability to convey resilience and heartbreak simultaneously is Oscar-worthy, proving once again why she’s one of the finest actors of her generation.
A24’s influence is evident in the film’s bold choices, from its unflinching portrayal of addiction to its refusal to glorify the violence of MMA. Safdie doesn’t shy away from the sport’s brutality or its toll on Kerr’s body and mind, but he also avoids sensationalism, presenting the fights as both thrilling and tragic.
The Smashing Machine is a triumph for Benny Safdie, A24, and its incredible cast, particularly Emily Blunt, whose performance is a career-defining tour de force. It’s a film that lingers, not just for its raw depiction of MMA’s early days but for its unflinching look at the human cost of ambition and the power of love to endure even the toughest fights. Blunt deserves an Oscar for her work here, and while Johnson’s star persona slightly tempers his transformation, his commitment is undeniable. This is a must-see for fans of character-driven dramas, a knockout that hits hard and leaves you breathless.
The Smashing Machine is out now at Luna Leederville.
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