How To Watch 'The Smashing Machine': See Dwayne Johnson's Mark Kerr Biopic At Home
Catch Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson in a powerful new role from the comfort of your home. Known for his charismatic and action-packed performances, Johnson takes on a more serious character in The Smashing Machine, portraying MMA fighter Mark Kerr.
Film Festival Premieres and Reception
The movie premiered at the 2025 Venice International Film Festival and was later shown at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival. It received mostly positive reviews, with particular acclaim for Johnson’s dramatic portrayal, as noted by Mashable’s film editor Kristy Puchko.
Main Cast
- Dwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr
- Emily Blunt as Kerr’s partner, Dawn Staples
- Ryan Bader as UFC champion Mark Coleman
- Oleksandr Usyk as MMA fighter Igor Vovchanchyn
Plot Overview
Written and directed by Benny Safdie, known for Uncut Gems, The Smashing Machine recounts the true story of Mark Kerr’s rise during the early UFC days in the 1990s. The narrative moves between Japan’s Pride FC competition and the United States, exploring Kerr’s personal battles and his turbulent relationship with Dawn Staples as he fights to become the best fighter in the ring.
Where To Watch
If you missed The Smashing Machine in theaters, it is now available for home viewing. Check your preferred streaming platforms for availability and watch the film from your couch.
“The Smashing Machine tells the true story of MMA fighter Mark Kerr during the early days of the UFC in the '90s.” — film summary
Author’s summary: Dwayne Johnson delivers a gripping dramatic performance as MMA fighter Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine, now available to stream after acclaimed festival premieres.