Unraveling the Complexity of a Champion: Review of "The Smashing Machine"

"The Smashing Machine," directed by Benny Safdie, traces the journey of mixed martial arts legend Mark Kerr, played by Dwayne Johnson. The film begins with grainy footage of Kerr's first amateur fight, dispelling any misconceptions that his wrestling notoriety stemmed from choreographed, "fake" wrestling. Rather, Kerr's prowess is raw, brutal, and real.

Throughout the film, we're privy to the dichotomy of Kerr's character. On one hand, he's the worldwide sports star, with a striking physique and polite demeanor. On the other, there's another side to him, a hidden, dark side, dealing with a barely contained rage. Dwayne Johnson's performance excellently depicts this complex character's struggle between his internal rage and his professional persona.

The film also touches on Kerr's personal life, shedding light on his intricate relationship with his girlfriend, Dawn, played by Emily Blunt. It captures the everyday dramas they experience, showcasing the reality that success and victory in the ring can't always conquer the battles at home.

"The Smashing Machine" also delves into Kerr's battle with addiction, revealing the toll his high-profile career and life have taken on him. It masterfully highlights the fine balance of control that Kerr maintains over his life, including his ongoing fight against opioids. Despite his addiction, Kerr manages to pull himself back onto the path of recovery.

In the latter half of the movie, we see a shift as Kerr journeys towards sobriety, which only heightens the domestic strain. Safdie's direction crafts an engaging narrative, offering unpredictable and nuanced drama.

What makes "The Smashing Machine" stand apart is its unexpected climatic sequence, which leads to Kerr's most significant win yet-discovering the man beneath the machine. The Smashing Machine isn't your typical sports movie. It's a study of a man's struggle, both personal and professional, his journey towards self-discovery, and his transformative victory.