Emily Blunt Says Dwayne Johnson’s Role in “The Smashing Machine” ‘Has Been Life-Changing for Him’

Emily Blunt has recently opened up about her admiration for Dwayne Johnson’s role as former UFC fighter Mark Kerr in the film ‘The Smashing Machine,’ describing it as “life-changing.” Blunt, who stars alongside Johnson in the biopic, expressed her awe at witnessing her friend’s transformation through his portrayal of Kerr. The actress noted that Johnson, known for his action and comedy roles, has tapped into a deeper, more dramatic side in this film, allowing him to explore new facets of his acting abilities.

The biopic, which delves into the story of Mark Kerr, has already garnered attention, receiving a standing ovation that lasted an impressive 15 minutes after its world premiere at the Venice International Film Festival. Videos from the event captured emotional moments as Johnson and the film’s writer-director, Benny Safdie, were visibly moved by the audience’s reaction. This accolade is a testament to the impact of Johnson’s performance and the compelling narrative of Kerr’s life within the film.

Blunt shared insights into Johnson’s journey in portraying Kerr, highlighting his depth of emotional expression and vulnerability on screen. She mentioned that she has always perceived a reservoir of life experiences within Johnson, waiting to be explored in a more profound manner. Their close friendship and previous collaboration on ‘Jungle Cruise’ have allowed Blunt to witness Johnson’s growth as an actor and his willingness to push the boundaries of his craft for this role.

‘The Smashing Machine’ title is a nod to a 2002 documentary about Kerr, underscoring the mental and physical challenges faced by MMA fighters. Johnson, in preparing for this role, immersed himself in unfamiliar territory, delving into aspects of storytelling that he had not previously explored. The shift towards a more dramatic narrative marks a significant transition for Johnson, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to delve into uncharted creative territories and ‘live his dreams’ through this project.

During a press conference in Venice, Johnson reflected on the notion of living one’s authentic dreams versus fulfilling external expectations. He spoke candidly about the realization that led him to embrace the opportunity to delve into the emotional complexity of Kerr’s character, shedding light on his personal growth and artistic evolution throughout the filming process. Johnson’s introspective journey reflects a shift towards more challenging roles and a desire to explore the depths of his acting capabilities.

As ‘The Smashing Machine’ gears up for its theatrical release on October 3, anticipation continues to build around Johnson’s performance and the film’s overall impact on audiences. Blunt’s commentary offers a unique perspective on Johnson’s transformation into a character known for resilience, vulnerability, and inner strength. The convergence of personal growth, storytelling, and artistic exploration within this project sets the stage for a compelling cinematic experience that promises to resonate with viewers.