Dwayne Johnson was visibly moved at the Venice International Film Festival premiere of "The Smashing Machine" on September 1, 2025, as the film received a 15-minute standing ovation. The actor, best known for his roles in action and comedy films, shed tears as he stood alongside his co-star Emily Blunt, the film's director Benny Safdie, and Mark Kerr, the MMA legend he portrays in the movie. Safdie was also seen wiping away tears during the ovation.
"The Smashing Machine" is a biopic that tells the story of Mark Kerr, a two-time UFC heavyweight tournament winner who struggled with addiction during his career. The film explores Kerr's battles with addiction, winning, love, and friendship at the height of his career in the no-holds-barred era of the UFC. Blunt plays Kerr's girlfriend, Dawn Staples. The movie marks Safdie's first solo directorial effort after collaborating with his brother Josh on films such as "Good Time" and "Uncut Gems".
Johnson, who is also a producer on the film, has spoken about his desire to take on more serious roles. He said that he had a voice inside him asking, "what if I can do more?". He credited Blunt and Safdie with encouraging him to take on the role, saying that they helped him realize he was capable of more than he thought. According to Johnson, taking on the role wasn't about proving anything to Hollywood, but more for himself.
The film has already generated Oscar buzz for Johnson and Blunt. Venice's artistic director Alberto Barbera said he wouldn't be surprised to see Johnson and Blunt among the Oscar nominees next year. Critics have praised Johnson's performance, with some calling it a "revelation" and "extraordinary". Geoffrey Macnab of The Independent wrote that Johnson gives a performance of "immense pathos, intensity and depth," which seems destined to win him awards recognition. Early reviews have also lauded Blunt's performance as Kerr's girlfriend, Dawn, highlighting the palpable chemistry between her and Johnson. Jordan Mintzer of The Hollywood Reporter noted that Blunt gives Dawn "a whiplash spontaneity," portraying her with "a bittersweet fusion of compassion and arrogance".
The premiere was attended by several other notable figures, including Seth Rogen, who was overheard saying, "That was awesome," during the standing ovation. The film is competing for top prizes at the Venice Film Festival, and it is scheduled to be released in North American theaters on October 3.
