Dwayne Johnson, famously known as The Rock, may be on the path to an Oscar nomination following a warm reception for his performance in “The Smashing Machine” at the Venice Film Festival on Monday evening. The audience at the world premiere on the Lido was ecstatic, delivering a standing ovation that lasted an impressive 15 minutes, making it one of the festival’s longest to date.
As the cheers and chants echoed, Johnson became visibly emotional, shedding tears of joy alongside Benny Safdie, the film’s director, who embraced both his lead actors, including co-star Emily Blunt, during the celebration. The film’s real-life protagonist, Mark Kerr, who Johnson portrays, was also present, sharing in the emotional moment.
The atmosphere was further enlivened when a fan shouted Johnson’s iconic WWE catchphrase, “Can you smell what the Rock is cooking?!” which elicited laughter from the actor.
In this film, Johnson’s transformation is striking; he underwent extensive makeup and prosthetics to embody Kerr, a two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion. Previously, he explained to Variety that he is drawn to projects like “The Smashing Machine” because of Safdie’s ability to craft raw and authentic stories that delve into complex characters.
“I’m at a point in my career where I want to push myself in ways that I’ve not pushed myself in the past,” Johnson remarked, acknowledging his desire to create films that resonate on a deeper level and tackle themes of humanity, struggle, and pain.
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This film marks Benny Safdie’s directorial debut in feature films, following his work with his brother Josh on acclaimed independent films like “Good Time” and “Uncut Gems.” Notably, Josh will also make his directing debut this year with A24’s “Marty Supreme,” a sports drama featuring Timothée Chalamet. “The Smashing Machine” also sees Blunt reuniting with Safdie, following their collaboration in Christopher Nolan’s epic “Oppenheimer” and her previous pairing with Johnson in Disney’s “Jungle Cruise.”
