The Rock’s Oscar Bid: Dwayne Johnson Shines in Underwhelming MMA Biopic

Hi, I’m Jaden Patel, and I’ll be your guide through the wild world of celebrity news, served with a side of dry wit. In a move that’s left many scratching their heads, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has traded in his usual blockbuster fare for a dramatic turn in “The Smashing Machine,” a biographical sports drama that’s as sleepy as it is ambitious.

Running at a lean 123 minutes, this Toronto International Film Festival premiere tells the story of Mark Kerr, a two-time UFC heavyweight champion, with Johnson taking on the titular role. It’s a bold choice, and one that could potentially earn him an Oscar nod – yes, you read that right, The Rock is gunning for an Academy Award. But before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s take a step back and assess the film itself.

“The Smashing Machine” is, by all accounts, a low-key affair. Director Benny Safdie, known for his work on “Uncut Gems,” has opted for a softer character study, eschewing traditional sports movie conventions in favor of a more nuanced exploration of Kerr’s life. And while this approach is admirable, it’s also a bit of a snooze fest. The film’s pacing is languid, with long stretches of, well, not much happening. It’s like watching a closely contested MMA match, but without the excitement – or the blood and gore that the film’s marketing promised.

Johnson, however, is a different story altogether. His performance as Kerr is his most nuanced and respectable to date. He’s vulnerable, dialed in, and – gasp – not cracking jokes or hiding behind his tough-guy exterior. It’s a revelation, really, and one that has critics and audiences alike taking notice. As one observer noted, Johnson’s portrayal of Kerr is “his deepest, most nuanced and respectable work to date.”

But what about the rest of the cast? Emily Blunt, Johnson’s frequent co-star, plays Kerr’s girlfriend Dawn, and while their chemistry is undeniable, her character feels underdeveloped. It’s a shame, really, as Blunt is an talented actress who deserves better. On the other hand, Ryan Bader shines as Mark Coleman, Kerr’s friend and fellow MMA fighter. Their scenes together are some of the film’s most compelling, and it’s clear that Johnson and Bader have a strong rapport.

One of the most striking aspects of “The Smashing Machine” is its aesthetic. The film takes place from 1997 to 2000, and Safdie’s team has done an excellent job of capturing the look and feel of that era. The VHS-style visuals are a nice touch, and the green-hued locker room showers do indeed look like they belong in a meat processing plant.

As for Johnson’s Oscar chances, it’s anyone’s guess. While “The Smashing Machine” is unlikely to set the box office ablaze, Johnson’s performance is certainly worthy of consideration. And who knows? Maybe this is the start of a new chapter in his career, one that sees him taking on more dramatic roles and leaving his action hero days behind.

In the end, “The Smashing Machine” is a curiosity, a film that’s as fascinating as it is frustrating. Johnson’s performance is a highlight, but the film itself feels like a missed opportunity. Still, if you’re a fan of The Rock or just curious about his dramatic turn, it’s worth checking out.

And so, with “The Smashing Machine” set to hit theaters on October 3, the question on everyone’s mind is: what’s next for Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson? Will he continue to pursue more dramatic roles, or will he return to his action hero roots? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure – we’ll be watching.

Sources: Celebrity Storm and New York Post
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed