Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is no stranger to high-octane roles, from his time dominating the *Fast & Furious* franchise to his memorable turns in *Jumanji* and *Black Adam*. Yet, in his latest project, *The Smashing Machine*, fans are seeing a whole new side of the WWE superstar turned actor. The transformation is jaw-dropping, and it has already sparked massive excitement among audiences. Could this be the role that finally lands him an Oscar?
A Whole New Look: The Rock’s MMA Transformation
Known for his larger-than-life presence and rugged action-hero persona, Johnson’s recent role in *The Smashing Machine* sees him like never before—unrecognizable. The actor plays MMA pioneer Mark Kerr, a former UFC heavyweight tournament winner, in this upcoming A24 biopic set to release on October 3. To bring Kerr’s story to life, Johnson underwent a dramatic physical transformation, complete with hair and facial prosthetics.
Fans were quick to react to the trailer, marveling at how far Johnson has gone to portray the real-life MMA legend. “Finally, a serious movie from The Rock. It looks and feels fantastic,” said one fan, clearly impressed by the new direction Johnson is taking in his career.
Another praised the makeup team, writing, “The makeup department honestly did a good job here. Typically films will have an actor play someone from real life but they don’t really try to make the actor look like the person. This is true filmmaking right here.”
The Smashing Machine: A Story of Triumph and Tragedy
*The Smashing Machine* delves into Kerr’s rise and fall in the world of MMA, from his days as a champion fighter in the UFC and Pride to his battles with opioid addiction and the unraveling of his personal life. The film also explores his complicated relationship with his girlfriend,, Dawn Staples, played by Emily Blunt.
The dram surrounding Kerr’s life is palpable, and Johnson’s commitment to the role has already left a lasting impact. One fan, in awe of his transformation, shared, “The Rock looks totally unrecognizable. Good on him for finally stepping out of the white shirt and typical comfort zone roles he usually always does.”
“Dwayne is Coming for That Oscar”
But it’s not just the transformation that has fans buzzing—it’s the potential for Johnson to earn serious acting accolades. As one fan wrote on X, “Dwayne is coming for that Oscar.” It’s a sentiment echoed by many others, with one commenting, “Finally! The Rock is getting Acting GOLD!!”
While Johnson’s filmography has been packed with action-packed hits and family-friendly roles, his turn in *The Smashing Machine* has fans convinced that this is the performance that will earn him serious recognition. “See, The Rock can act!” another fan quipped, referencing the actor’s ability to break out of his typical mold.
A Star-Studded Cast Alongside Johnson
Joining Johnson in this highly anticipated film is a star-studded lineup, with several big names from the combat sports world making their acting debuts. Oleksandr Usyk, the undisputed heavyweight boxing champion, steps into the role of Igor Vovchanchyn, the undefeated Ukrainian MMA legend who famously fought Kerr in Pride.
Former Bellator two-division champion Ryan Bader also plays a pivotal role in the film, portraying Kerr’s best friend, former UFC champion Mark Coleman. The cast also includes Japanese fighter Satoshi Ishii as Enson Inoue, with legendary UFC fighter Bas Rutten playing himself.
The inclusion of these combat sports icons only adds to the film’s authenticity and appeal, creating a truly unique cinematic experience for MMA fans and moviegoers alike.