The Smashing Machine sounds just like the title of a Wallace & Gromit stop-motion comedy, however it will be a way more brutal expertise than something Feathers McGraw might give you. It’s a biographical drama based mostly on real-life UFC legend Mark Kerr with Dwayne Johnson within the lead function.
Kerr himself could be very excited: he shared the poster to his Instagram and wrote that he is “in disbelief that that is actual”. He is “so happy with the work DJ put into changing into The Smashing Machine. I’ve a lot gratitude, humility and respect for each little element manufacturing uncovered.”
This is not the primary time Kerr’s story has been instructed on display screen. There’s one other film about his profession which was made again in 2022 – however whereas the trailer is obtainable to stream (and embedded under), you’ll be able to’t stream the film, though I’ll be amazed if probably the greatest streaming providers does not purchase the rights when the brand new film’s publicity begins to select up steam.
What was the unique Smashing Machine?
The 2002 film, The Smashing Machine: The Life and Times of Extreme Fighter Mark Kerr, was critically acclaimed for its unflinching portrayal of the brutality of a few of Kerr’s earlier battles, and of Kerr’s struggles with dependancy.
It’s a troublesome watch and naturally, it is usually very violent. And it sounds prefer it’ll have little or no in frequent tonally with A24’s tackle the identical story.
While the brand new film is not out but, some websites are operating tales based mostly on early viewings – and one in every of them, Worldofreel.com, says it could possibly be the weirdest film of 2025. According to Jordan Ruimy, “judging by what I’ve heard, there may be zero doubt in my thoughts persons are not prepared for the kind of movie in retailer”.
Ruimi describes it as “gonzo filmmaking”, “not Oscar-bait within the least” and “one of many weirdest movies A24 has ever produced.” Given that that is the studio that gave us Everything Everywhere All At Once, Midsommar and The Lighthouse that is fairly the declare.
The A24 film will probably be launched in theaters on October 3, 2025, and given Warner Bros. Discovery cope with the indie powerhouse, we are able to anticipate The Smashing Machine to stream on Max within the US after its field workplace run.
