An interesting rumor making the rounds in Hollywood suggests The Rock’s upcoming movie, “Smashing Machine, may not deliver the results and acclaim he is hoping for.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will go down as one of the most successful performers in WWE history. However, the legendary wrestler had a unique opportunity over two decades ago. With his good looks and natural charisma, Hollywood came calling.
While it wasn’t always smooth sailing for The Rock, after some hard work and smart choices, he has become one of the biggest stars in the film business. He has been part of billion-dollar franchises and is one of the highest-paid actors in the industry. There is not much more for him to prove as a box office draw. The only goals to aim for are award season nominations. It is something that has evaded him throughout his acting career.
However, he seems to be aiming for some Golden Globe and Oscar nominations in 2026 with his new movie “Smashing Machine.” The film is based on the tragic rise and fall of former UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion Mark Kerr. Physically, The Rock is a perfect choice for the role. And with Benny Safdie in the director’s chair, it seems set up for the WWE great to take his acting career to new levels. Or, maybe not.
The Rock’s movie ‘Smashing Machine’ headed toward being a disappointment?
World of Reel reporter Jordan Ruimy offered up a worrisome update on the film after a pair of early screenings in recent months.
“A month ago, Benny Safdie’s “The Smashing Machine” screened for a lucky few. I kept quiet about it. However, it’s now just screened again, and judging by what I’ve heard, there is zero doubt in my mind people are not ready for the type of film in store.
Jordan Ruimy
I’m told what Safdie has concocted in ‘Smashine Machine’ is “indescribable in tone and style,” and that it “almost plays like a spoof of the biopic genre.” In other words, ‘Smashing Machine,’ is “gonzo filmmaking,” and is NOT Oscar-bait in the least bit.”
Ruimy added that Safdie’s “deconstructed” vision for the biopic is set up to be one of the weirdest movies ever from production company A24. However, The Rock’s performance apparently has a tone that would be expected of a film like this but runs counter to what his director is trying to present.
“It’s as if his performance belongs in a different movie,” one attendee at the screening told Ruimy. The film has a production budget of $40 million and also stars Emily Blunt.
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