Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, and Benny Safdie Support Josh Brolin's 'Smashing Machine'
Emily Blunt shared why she cried the first time she saw Dwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr in the campaign to gain Oscar recognition for The Smashing Machine. Despite disappointing box office numbers, Benny Safdie’s film has passionate supporters, enough for A24 to pursue awards season prospects.
On Tuesday night, Josh Brolin drove from Santa Barbara to Hollywood’s Academy Lynwood Dunn Theater to moderate an engaging Q&A with Safdie, Emily Blunt, and Dwayne Johnson. Brolin, a fan of the film, joined the conversation with the stars.
Critical Reception
- “Insightful”
- “Smart, Funny, Easy To Digest, And Always Newsworthy”
- “Always Informative And Honest”
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About the Film
Set mainly in the early 2000s, The Smashing Machine features Johnson as Mark Kerr, a pioneering UFC fighter who challenges typical stereotypes of the profession. Emily Blunt plays Dawn Staples, Kerr’s wife at the time, who faces her own personal struggles.
The film earned Safdie the Best Director award at the 2025 Venice Film Festival premiere.
Q&A Highlights
The event was, like many talent-hosted Q&As, a celebration of the film and its team. Though Brolin and Johnson have never shared screen time, Brolin previously appeared with Blunt in Sicario, while Blunt and Johnson co-starred in Jungle Cruise.
Author's summary: The Smashing Machine shines through heartfelt performances and strong direction, gaining dedicated fans despite its modest box office, backed by a passionate awards campaign.