Reviewed By: Flickman
Let me start by saying that The Smashing Machine isn’t remarkable in any way. Going in, I expected an inspiring story about a man who overcame tremendous odds to become a legend. Unfortunately, that’s not what this film delivers. Instead, it tells the rather ordinary story of Mark Kerr, a wrestler turned Pride Fighting and UFC competitor who struggled with addiction, went to rehab, and eventually got clean.
Honestly, they could have made this movie about almost any fighter in the sport’s history and it probably would have been more compelling. For some reason, though, they chose Kerr, a decision that feels more self-indulgent than inspired. The film itself is watchable, but there’s nothing particularly extraordinary about Kerr’s story. It almost plays like a vanity project, the kind of movie someone makes about their own life simply because they can.
The story opens with Kerr dominating in the ring, the unstoppable tough guy who can’t seem to lose. Beneath his massive frame, though, there’s a surprisingly gentle side, which makes him likable. Things take a turn after a controversial “no contest” result following an illegal knee to the head. From there, his career and confidence spiral downward. His relationship with his girlfriend, Dawn, doesn’t make things any easier, and as he battles addiction and recovery, the story just drifts without much sense of purpose.
By the end, I expected a climactic showdown between Kerr and his friend, Mark Coleman. But that never happens. Instead, Kerr loses again, Coleman wins the tournament, and the story simply fizzles out. Honestly, maybe Coleman should have been the subject of the movie, at least he came out on top.
The one thing The Smashing Machine does have going for it is Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. As always, he brings his A-game. From Be Cool to Pain & Gain, Johnson consistently delivers strong performances, and this one is no exception. He completely disappears into the role of Kerr, to the point where he’s almost unrecognizable. That is, until he shaves his head toward the end and transforms into “The Rock”.
Still, even Johnson’s presence can’t save this film from feeling unnecessary. Is it a great story? No. Does it offer deep insight into overcoming hardship? Not really. I followed UFC and Pride back in the day, and while Mark Kerr was around, there were plenty of other fighters whose stories were probably far more interesting and impactful. Let’s be honest, if Dwayne Johnson weren’t starring in this, it wouldn’t be getting nearly as much attention, and most people wouldn’t even bother watching.
For me, this was a one-and-done viewing. There’s no reason to revisit it. Unlike biographical dramas such as American Sniper, which blend gripping storytelling with emotional depth, The Smashing Machine just craps along without much energy or purpose.
If you’re curious to see Dwayne Johnson in a more dramatic and transformative role, it’s worth checking out once. Otherwise, this is an easy pass.
Overall Verdict: It's only worth watching for "The Rock's" performace. There's nothing remarkable about this story.
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