Dwayne Johnson, widely known for his blockbuster action roles and magnetic on-screen presence, may soon add the coveted Oscar nod to his impressive resume. Taking a bold new direction with his next role as Mark Kerr, a two-time heavyweight champion, Johnson is set to lead Benny Safdie’s action/drama The Smashing Machine.
Meanwhile, taking a keen interest in the project, UFC President Dana White has voiced strong support for Dwayne Johnson. Being optimistic about The Smashing Machine, White stated that Johnson’s upcoming biographical documentary could catapult his fame and even earn him potential nominations at the Oscars.
UFC President Dana White is Optimistic About Dwayne Johnson’s Oscar Nod
As Dwayne Johnson delves into Benny Safdie’s biographical documentary, The Smashing Machine, to portray the role of MMA legend Mark Kerr, Johnson’s performance catches the attention of UFC President Dana White. Thus, speaking with Collider about the new Roku series, Fight Inc: Inside the UFC, White spoke about his enthusiasm towards Johnson’s upcoming movie.
Asked about his thoughts on The Smashing Machine and whether the film will accurately represent the journey of a UFC fighter, Dana White simply claimed that Dwayne Johnson will nail his role. Addressing the actor’s recent injury on set, which he had shared via Instagram, White highlighted Johnson’s dedication and claimed how his film could lead him to the Oscars.
I don’t know if you saw it, but he was showing on his Instagram the other day that he messed up his elbow. The Rock will kill this. He will nail this role. I know how serious he’s taking this, I know who’s working with him, and I know how hard he’s working on this film. I think that this could be the opportunity for The Rock to actually be nominated for an Oscar.
Being a key figure in the world of MMA, UFC President Dana White’s optimistic comments on Dwayne Johnson’s The Smashing Machine prove the level of accuracy and precision implemented by Benny Safdie. Further, considering Johnson’s dedication and White’s admiration for the biographical drama, the actor indeed appears preparing for his first Oscar nomination.
Dwayne Johnson is Making Waves with His Work Progress in The Smashing Machine
Exploring the tumultuous career of mixed martial arts legend Mark Kerr, The Smashing Machine will see Dwayne Johnson in titular role. The upcoming movie is set to mark Johnson’s evident switch from his popular high-octane films like Fast & Furious and Jumanji to a more critically acclaimed project, representing his departure into more complex and emotionally charged territory.
Completely submerging himself into the role, starting from prosthetics to physical transformation, Dwayne Johnson is making waves in Hollywood for his upcoming movie. Meanwhile, although the plot of the film is kept under wraps, The Smashing Machine is set to combine action and serious drama produced under the A24 banner and helmed by Benny Safdie.
While Dwayne Johnson’s career trajectory has been marked by a set of challenging and diverse roles that showcase his versatility beyond his action-hero persona, the actor’s ultimate commitment in portraying Kerr’s journey could finally mark his Hollywood triumph. If Johnson indeed secures an Oscar nod, it would mark a significant milestone in his career, validating his evolution from WWE superstar to Hollywood A-lister.
The Smashing Machine is scheduled to release in December 2024.