Overview

• Dwayne Johnson and director Benny Safdie were brought to tears as the Venice premiere concluded with a reported 15-minute standing ovation.
• Johnson plays MMA trailblazer Mark Kerr in Benny Safdie’s biopic, with critics noting a career-shift performance that has prompted awards speculation.
• At Venice, Johnson emphasized that the film is framed as a love story that explores Kerr’s relationships, addiction struggles and the pressure to win.
• The star underwent a dramatic physical change, using 13–14 prosthetic pieces and lengthy makeup sessions and appearing noticeably leaner than usual.
• Emily Blunt co-stars as Dawn Staples, and A24 plans a theatrical rollout starting Oct. 3.