'The Smashing Machine' is now streaming: How to watch it at home

'The Smashing Machine' now streaming: how to watch at home

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson takes a dramatic turn in The Smashing Machine, leaving behind his usual action-comedy roles to portray legendary MMA fighter Mark Kerr. The film premiered at the 2025 Venice International Film Festival and later screened at Toronto’s festival, earning positive reviews and widespread praise for Johnson's performance.

The cast features Emily Blunt as Kerr’s partner Dawn Staples, Ryan Bader as UFC champion Mark Coleman, and Oleksandr Usyk as fighter Igor Vovchanchyn. Written and directed by Benny Safdie, known for Uncut Gems, the movie dramatizes Kerr’s rise and struggles during the early UFC era of the 1990s, spanning both American and Japanese fighting circuits.

“The Smashing Machine sees Dwayne Johnson in one of his most serious and transformative performances yet.”

The film also delves into the emotional turmoil of Kerr’s personal life, including his complicated relationship with Dawn. While it wasn’t a huge box-office hit, critics praised Johnson’s physical and emotional transformation, calling the film a must-watch for anyone interested in the human side of combat sports.

How to watch

Watch The Smashing Machine now to see Dwayne Johnson like never before—raw, vulnerable, and deeply human.

Author’s summary

The film showcases Dwayne Johnson’s impressive shift into serious drama, offering a gripping and emotionally charged portrayal of MMA fighter Mark Kerr’s turbulent life.

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Mashable Mashable — 2025-11-06

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