Dwayne `The Rock` Johnson is receiving significant praise for his portrayal in the trailer for his upcoming MMA movie, where he appears notably different from his usual roles.
Known for his transition from WWE fame to a successful acting career, Johnson has starred in numerous major films. His filmography includes popular titles like the Fast & Furious franchise, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, The Mummy Returns, Black Adam, and Disney`s hit animated film Moana.
Historically, Dwayne Johnson hasn`t always been critically acclaimed for his acting depth, often typecast in similar roles ranging from action heroes to mercenaries.
However, his latest turn, depicting a UFC legend and involving intensive MMA training, has been met with a very positive response, based solely on the recently released trailer.
Strong Fan Response to `The Smashing Machine` Trailer
Johnson takes on the role of Mark Kerr, a pioneering MMA fighter and former UFC heavyweight tournament champion, in the forthcoming A24 biographical film titled ‘The Smashing Machine’. The movie is scheduled for release on October 3rd and delves into Kerr`s career journey through UFC and Pride, his battles with opioid addiction, and his complex relationship with his girlfriend, Dawn Staples, played by Emily Blunt (known for her roles in A Quiet Place and Edge of Tomorrow).
Johnson underwent a remarkable transformation for the part, utilizing hair and facial prosthetics. The striking change shown in the new trailer has left fans eagerly anticipating the film.
Social media platforms have been buzzing with reactions. One fan commented on the trailer, stating, “Finally a serious movie from The Rock. It looks and feels fantastic.” Another praised the visual transformation, writing, “The makeup department honestly did a good job here… This is true film-making right here.”
Many fans expressed excitement about seeing Johnson in a role outside his typical comfort zone. Comments included, “Finalllllllllyyyyyyyyyyy The Rock is getting Acting GOLD!!” and “The Rock looks totally unrecognizable. Good on him for finally stepping out of the white shirt and typical comfort zone roles he usually always does.” The performance prompted predictions of prestigious awards, with one fan noting, “Dwayne is coming for that Oscar.” Another simply said, “See, The Rock can act!” Some fans even jokingly referred to it as “The Rock, in his acting debut… good to see.”
`The Smashing Machine` Features Recognizable Combat Sports Figures
Adding to the film`s appeal, the cast includes several notable personalities from the world of combat sports alongside Dwayne Johnson.
Undisputed world heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk makes his acting debut, portraying Ukrainian MMA icon Igor Vovchanchyn, a fighter who notably faced Kerr during his undefeated streak in Pride.
Both Usyk and former Bellator two-division champion Ryan Bader were featured in the trailer. Bader takes on the role of Mark Coleman, a former UFC Champion and close friend of Kerr.
Additionally, the film includes Japanese fighter Satoshi Ishii playing Enson Inoue, and former UFC Heavyweight Bas Rutten, who appears as himself, further grounding the movie in the reality of the combat sports world it depicts.
Rupert Hartwell