"The Rock" Delivers in "The Smashing Machine"
Opinion writer Jayden Shipley reviews Dwayne Johnson's performance in The Smashing Machine. This film has sparked divided opinions worldwide, with some suggesting it deserves an Oscar, while others see it as a misstep for Johnson.
Johnson’s Role and Performance
Johnson portrays Mark Kerr, an MMA fighter battling addiction and coping with personal loss. The story closely follows the documentary The Smashing Machine: The Life and Times of Extreme Fighter Mark Kerr, even recreating some scenes shot-for-shot.
The inclusion of real fighters, such as Ryan Bader and Oleksandr Usyk, enhances the film’s realism. To achieve this, convincing performances are essential, something Johnson has struggled with previously.
“Johnson has been critiqued for never playing a character and acting just like himself; this could have derailed this film because it is a biographical drama.”
However, in this film, Johnson delivers a powerful performance, altering his mannerisms, voice, and physicality to fully embody Kerr.
Supporting Cast Debate
While Johnson’s acting has been the film’s focal point, discussions have also emerged about Emily Blunt’s role, with some arguing she was underused.
“Another big discussion has been whether Emily Blunt was underutilized in the film.”
Summary: Dwayne Johnson’s transformative portrayal in The Smashing Machine marks a career highlight, though some feel supporting roles, like Emily Blunt’s, deserved more attention.