Dwayne Johnson Responds to ‘The Smashing Machine’s’ Low Opening: “Truth is this film has changed my life”
Dwayne Johnson’s latest film, The Smashing Machine, tells the story of former amateur wrestler and MMA fighter Mark Kerr. Directed, written, co-produced, and edited by Benny Safdie, the biographical sports drama also stars Emily Blunt as Kerr’s girlfriend Dawn Staples, with Ryan Bader, Bas Rutten, and Oleksandr Usyk in supporting roles.
The movie premiered in competition at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 1, where it won the Silver Lion. It was later released in the United States by A24 on October 3.
Critics generally responded positively, with Rotten Tomatoes reporting that 73% of 231 reviews were favorable. The site noted, “Dwayne Johnson goes the distance with his transformative turn as Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine, a gritty biopic that sidesteps cliché even at the expense of narrative satisfaction while still landing the dramatic body blows that count.”
Metacritic gave the film a score of 65 out of 100 based on 53 reviews, indicating generally favorable reception, and audiences polled by CinemaScore gave it a B- on an A+ to F scale.
Exclusive clip from Benny Safdie’s ‘THE SMASHING MACHINE’, starring Dwayne Johnson.
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) September 25, 2025
In theaters on October 3. pic.twitter.com/Eb8OgfXvwq
Despite the praise, the film struggled at the box office, earning just $5.9 million in its opening weekend.
Analysts attributed the low numbers to limited demographic appeal, weak word-of-mouth, and a digital-focused marketing campaign that did not connect with older viewers.
Johnson addressed the disappointing opening, telling reporters, “In our storytelling world, you can’t control box office results — but what I realized you can control is your performance, and your commitment to completely disappear and go elsewhere. And I will always run to that opportunity… Truth is this film has changed my life.”
Even though the financial performance was underwhelming, the movie has left a strong impression with critics and viewers who appreciate Johnson’s dedication and the realistic portrayal of Kerr’s life.
The Smashing Machine shows that box office numbers don’t always reflect the quality of a film. Johnson’s performance and the story’s depth make it worth seeing, even if it didn’t bring in huge crowds at first. What do you think about Johnson’s role and the film’s opening? Share your thoughts in the comments.
