In the trailer, Johnson dons prosthetics and adopts a new accent to portray the two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion. The film, directed by Benny Safdie, is a departure from Johnson’s usual blockbuster roles, as he takes on a more dramatic, prestige-driven project.
Directed by Benny Safdie, known for co-directing Uncut Gems and Good Time, The Smashing Machine tells the story of Kerr, whose life and struggles with addiction were chronicled in the 2002 HBO documentary of the same name. Johnson’s portrayal dives deep into Kerr’s turbulent career and personal battles. The film also stars Emily Blunt as Kerr’s wife, Dawn Staples, with Bas Rutten, Lyndsey Gavin, and Oleksandr Usyk in supporting roles. This marks Johnson and Blunt’s second collaboration, following Jungle Cruise.
Johnson, known for his action-packed roles, was drawn to the project because of Safdie’s reputation for telling raw, authentic stories. The actor expressed a desire to challenge himself with a role that explores the complexities of human struggle.
Produced by Safdie, Johnson, Danny Garcia, Eli Bush, Hiram Garcia, and David Koplan, The Smashing Machine is set to hit theaters on October 3. The trailer, which features Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” has already sparked buzz as it gives a glimpse of Johnson in one of his most transformative roles yet.