The initial trailer for Benny Safdie`s new film, The Smashing Machine, offers a first look at Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson`s complete transformation into UFC icon Mark Kerr.
Scheduled for release in theaters on October 3rd, the highly anticipated movie delves into Kerr`s successful yet challenging career. Known as a two-time UFC tournament champion, his life later took a difficult turn as he battled addiction to painkillers and narcotics, resulting from numerous injuries sustained during his fighting and wrestling pursuits.
The film is primarily based on a 2002 documentary of the same name, which chronicled Kerr`s journey from his dominant period in the UFC to seeking a fresh start in PRIDE FC in Japan. While he found initial success there, his struggles with addiction eventually resurfaced and took hold.
Oscar-nominated actress Emily Blunt features in the film as Dawn Staples, Kerr`s ex-wife, who was a significant presence throughout the original documentary detailing the fighter`s life.
Former Bellator heavyweight champion Ryan Bader also takes on a key role, portraying UFC Hall of Famer Mark Coleman. Coleman was initially a rival but later became a mentor to Kerr as he attempted to get his career back on track. The documentary highlighted Kerr`s difficulty in reaching his former heights in PRIDE, contrasting with Coleman`s own career revival, culminating in his win of the first ever PRIDE Heavyweight Grand Prix.
The cast includes boxing heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk as Igor Vovchanchyn, a legendary Russian fighter whom Kerr faced in PRIDE. Bas Rutten appears playing himself, reprising his prominent role from the 2002 documentary. The film also features appearances by other fighters, such as James Moontasri, Satoshi Ishii, and Roberto `Cyborg` Abreu.
Benny Safdie, recognized for his collaborative work with his brother Josh Safdie on films like Uncut Gems, makes his solo directorial debut with The Smashing Machine.
Prepare for The Smashing Machine to arrive in theaters nationwide on October 3rd.
