[Video] Dwayne Johnson Breaks Down in Sobs as ‘The Smashing Machine’ Earns a Standing Ovation in Venice
Dwayne Johnson was moved to tears during the world premiere of The Smashing Machine at the Venice Film Festival on Monday, as the film received a 15-minute standing ovation. The reaction came from an audience on the Lido, one of the longest ovations of the festival so far, according to reports.
Johnson, who plays former amateur wrestler and MMA fighter Mark Kerr, was visibly emotional as the crowd cheered and chanted. Emily Blunt stars alongside him as Kerr’s then-wife, Dawn Staples. Director Benny Safdie joined the actors on stage, hugging them and shedding tears of joy as the applause continued.
The real Mark Kerr also attended, celebrating the story of his life with the cast.
Dwayne Johnson cries during the 15-minute standing ovation for his new movie ‘THE SMASHING MACHINE’
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) September 1, 2025
Read our review: https://t.co/ejtQIs1Usz pic.twitter.com/17pQYebeat
In the film, Johnson is nearly unrecognizable. He underwent extensive prosthetics to portray Kerr, who was known for his impressive physique as a two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion.
Johnson previously said that he was drawn to the project because Safdie “continues to push the envelope when it comes to stories that are raw and real; characters that are authentic and at times uncomfortable and arresting.”
The actor added, “I’m at a point in my career where I want to push myself in ways that I’ve not pushed myself in the past. I want to make films that matter, that explore a humanity and explore struggle [and] pain.”
The Smashing Machine is a biographical sports drama written, directed, co-produced, and edited by Benny Safdie.
The film features Johnson as Kerr, with Blunt, Ryan Bader, Bas Rutten, and Oleksandr Usyk in supporting roles. Other cast members include Lyndsey Gavin, Satoshi Ishii, James Moontasri, and Whitney Moore.
The movie had its world premiere in the main competition of the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 1, 2025, where it was nominated for the Golden Lion. It is set to be released in the United States by A24 on October 3, 2025, and will also screen at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival on September 8, 2025.
Critics have responded positively so far. On Rotten Tomatoes, 94% of 16 critics’ reviews are favorable, with an average rating of 7.5/10. Metacritic reports a score of 75 out of 100, indicating generally favorable reviews.
Johnson’s performance and the emotional response at Venice suggest that The Smashing Machine could generate significant Oscar buzz. Fans and industry insiders alike are praising the film for its raw storytelling and compelling performances.
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