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Dwayne Johnson Brings ‘The Smashing Machine’ to Mexico After Soft U.S. Start

The A24 biopic on MMA pioneer Mark Kerr pairs Venice buzz with Johnson’s most radical transformation.

Overview

  • The film opens in Mexican cinemas on October 9, following fan events in Mexico City where Johnson and director Benny Safdie greeted crowds.
  • Early U.S. box-office reports cited by Variety put the opening weekend at about $5.9 million, below projections, with plans for further expansion.
  • Johnson said he cannot control ticket sales but can control the work, thanking supporters and calling the role life‑changing.
  • To portray Kerr, Johnson gained roughly 14 kilograms and wore about two dozen prosthetics, supported by vocal coaching and extensive makeup sessions.
  • Safdie pursued a semi‑documentary style by hiding 16mm cameras to heighten intimacy, as the film continues to ride strong Venice reactions including a lengthy standing ovation.