Dwayne Johnson Takes a Punch in “The Smashing Machine”
In a notable revelation during the promotional tour for his upcoming film, The Smashing Machine, Dwayne Johnson, famously known as "The Rock," shared his experience of taking a real punch while portraying UFC veteran Mark Kerr. The film, set to premiere in the U.S. on October 3, draws inspiration from Kerr’s life and the acclaimed 2002 documentary of the same name.
Authenticity in Fight Scenes
During the filming, Johnson and director Benny Safdie aimed for an authentic depiction of mixed martial arts combat. One of the film’s key scenes recreates Kerr’s intense 2000 Pride Grand Prix finals match against Kazuyuki Fujita. To ensure realism, Johnson performed many of his own stunts, which included immersing himself in the physicality of the fight scenes.
Johnson recalled, “It felt like when you get rocked by a real fighter multiple times.” He described a moment in the film when he finds himself dazed on the mat, stating that the impact he experienced was genuine. “I was seeing three heads,” he added, emphasizing that his staggering look was not just for show, but a real reaction to the punch he took.
A Push for Realistic Stunts
Safdie’s request to avoid cutting away from Johnson during pivotal scenes created a dilemma. While Johnson had stunt doubles on standby, he felt compelled to engage fully with his scene partner, a professional MMA fighter. He insisted, “You have to lay it in,” specifically requesting his partner to strike him on the cheekbone to avoid serious injury while still conveying the intensity of the combat.
The pro fighter’s initial reluctance prompted Johnson to bring Safdie into the conversation. After some persuasion, resulted in a moment where Johnson ultimately took a hard punch. Reflecting on this experience, he exclaimed, “He hit me so hard! That was a punch! Dude!" This commitment to authenticity showcases Johnson’s dedication to his craft.
A Star-Studded Cast
The Smashing Machine not only features Johnson and Safdie, but also stars Emily Blunt and several notable personalities from the MMA world. UFC alumnus and two-division Bellator champion Ryan Bader plays the role of Mark Coleman, while boxing heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk and MMA legend Bas Rutten are included in supporting roles. Their presence adds depth to the film and highlights its commitment to realism within the sport.
Anticipation and Significance
The film’s narrative dives into the struggles and triumphs of Mark Kerr, whose story resonates with themes of resilience and redemption. By bringing to life the complexities of fighting and its impact, The Smashing Machine aims to engage both fans of combat sports and those unfamiliar with the rigorous world of MMA.
As the film gears up for its release, Johnson’s experience sheds light on the lengths actors may go for authenticity in their roles. The physical toll taken during production serves as a reminder of the reality behind staged performances and the respect athletes and performers deserve for their work in combat sports.
Ultimately, The Smashing Machine promises to deliver not only an engaging story about Mark Kerr but also a glimpse into the ethos of mixed martial arts—showcasing both the brutality and beauty of the sport. As anticipation builds ahead of its premiere, this film could further spotlight the challenges and realities faced by athletes in the ring and beyond.
