Overview

• A24 releases the Benny Safdie–directed Mark Kerr biopic in U.S. theaters on October 3 following its Venice premiere.
• Dwayne Johnson says the role was his toughest yet, citing a 30-pound weight gain, prosthetics and a new voice alongside intensive fight training.
• Preparation included a 12-week camp, multi-hour daily sessions and work with Kerr and other fighters to change his movement and screen presence.
• Emily Blunt portrays Dawn Staples and emphasizes the film’s focus on a complicated relationship, with real fighters like Ryan Bader, Bas Rutten and Oleksandr Usyk adding authenticity.
• Safdie won Venice’s Silver Lion for directing, early reviews widely praise Johnson’s performance and some critics describe the film’s emotional approach as restrained.