Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, and Benny Safdie Boost Josh Brolin’s 'Smashing Machine'
Emily Blunt shared why she cried the first time she saw Dwayne Johnson portray Mark Kerr in the film The Smashing Machine, a project campaigning for Oscar recognition. Although the box office results were underwhelming, Benny Safdie’s film still has strong supporters, prompting A24 to push its awards season prospects.
On Tuesday night, Josh Brolin traveled from Santa Barbara to Hollywood’s Academy Lynwood Dunn Theater to moderate a lively Q&A with Safdie, Emily Blunt, and Dwayne Johnson. Brolin, a fan himself, helped create an engaging discussion with the cast and director.
Critical Reception
The film was described with praise such as:
- Insightful
- Smart, funny, and easy to digest
- Always newsworthy, informative, and honest
About the Film
Set mainly in the early 2000s, The Smashing Machine features Johnson as Mark Kerr, a UFC pioneer who defies typical stereotypes about fighters. Blunt plays Dawn Staples, Kerr’s wife at the time, who faces her own struggles.
The film premiered at the 2025 Venice Film Festival, where Safdie won the Best Director award.
Cast and Connections
The Q&A session felt like a celebration of the film and its creators. Though Johnson and Brolin are longtime friends who have never acted onscreen together, Brolin previously appeared with Blunt in Sicario, while Johnson and Blunt co-starred in Jungle Cruise.
“Emily Blunt on why she cried the first time she saw Dwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr.”
Author’s summary: The film The Smashing Machine, supported by strong performances and directing, garners awards buzz despite modest box office returns, highlighted by deep cast connections and compelling storytelling.