Review of "The Smashing Machine" Featuring Dwayne Johnson
Opinion writer Jayden Shipley evaluates the film "The Smashing Machine," which has sparked mixed reactions worldwide. Some viewers praise it as Oscar-worthy, while others see it as a disappointment for Dwayne Johnson.
Plot and Realism
Johnson portrays Mark Kerr, an MMA fighter battling addiction and personal loss. The movie closely follows the narrative of the documentary The Smashing Machine: The Life and Times of Extreme Fighter Mark Kerr, even recreating several scenes from it. To enhance authenticity, real fighters such as Ryan Bader and Oleksandr Usyk appear in the film.
Performance and Acting
Johnson has faced criticism for typically playing versions of himself rather than distinct characters. This could have undermined a biographical drama like this one. However, in this role, he delivers a remarkable performance, altering his mannerisms, voice, and physique to truly embody Kerr.
Additional Cast and Discussions
Beyond Johnson’s portrayal, the film also sparked debate about the underuse of Emily Blunt’s talent.
“If you don’t enjoy this performance from Johnson, then you will never like his films.”
“To make us feel the realistic aspect of the film, we have to believe in the performances, which has been a struggle for Johnson in the past.”
Author's summary: Dwayne Johnson’s transformative performance in "The Smashing Machine" impresses despite past critiques, while the film’s realism is bolstered by real MMA fighters and close ties to its documentary roots.