Particle.news

Download on the App Store

The Smashing Machine’ Opens Friday in U.S. and Spain as Early Reviews Spotlight Dwayne Johnson

Critics describe Ben Safdie’s Mark Kerr biopic as a restrained drama that showcases Johnson’s transformative performance.

Overview

  • A24 releases the film in the United States on October 3, with Diamond Films handling the same‑day rollout in Spain.
  • Latin American theatrical dates are staggered: October 9 in Argentina, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay and the Dominican Republic; October 16 in Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia and Peru; November 6 in Uruguay.
  • The story follows UFC pioneer Mark Kerr’s rise and his battle with opioid addiction, with Emily Blunt portraying Kerr’s wife, Dawn Staples.
  • An El Periódico review gives three stars, says the film emulates a 2004 documentary on Kerr, and identifies Johnson as the standout.
  • Directed and written by Ben (Bennie) Safdie, the 123‑minute feature is produced with A24, Out for the Count and Seven Bucks Productions, and current coverage frames it as an Oscar‑minded vehicle for Johnson.