Dwayne Johnson’s trip to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in May to support A24’s sales launch of the MMA fighting drama “The Smashing Machine” has proven to be a resounding success. The film, which stars Johnson as the legendary MMA fighter Mark Kerr, has recently wrapped production in Japan and is set for a US release in 2025. A24 has secured a multitude of distribution deals for the movie, including agreements with key partners in the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Japan, and many other countries across the globe.
Behind the Scenes of the Film
“The Smashing Machine” is a project written, directed, and produced by Benny Safdie, known for his work on acclaimed films such as “Uncut Gems” and “Good Time”. A24 is onboard as the producer and financier of the film, which delves into the life of MMA fighter Mark Kerr during the no-holds-barred era of the UFC. The storyline follows Kerr at the peak of his career as he grapples with personal challenges and questions his own motivations, while also navigating the complexities of relationships. Emily Blunt co-stars in the film as Kerr’s girlfriend, wife, and ex-wife Dawn Staples, portraying the emotional turmoil of being part of the champion fighter’s tumultuous world.
Apart from Safdie, the production team of “The Smashing Machine” includes heavyweights such as Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, and Hiram Garcia from Seven Bucks Productions, alongside producers David Koplan and Eli Bush. Johnson, who also stars in the film, took time off from filming to personally engage with buyers at the Cannes Film Festival, showcasing his commitment to the project. Mark Kerr, the real-life inspiration behind the film, is an accomplished former wrestler and mixed martial artist, boasting an impressive array of titles and championships throughout his career.
The movie’s title, “The Smashing Machine”, is derived from a 2003 HBO documentary that chronicled Mark Kerr’s journey through the MMA world, including his fights in Vale Tudo, the UFC, and PRIDE. The film aims to capture the essence of Kerr’s struggles and triumphs, offering a glimpse into the life of a fighter grappling with both external opponents and internal demons.
Dwayne Johnson’s foray into the Cannes Film Festival to promote “The Smashing Machine” has yielded fruitful results, with the film securing distribution deals across multiple territories. With a stellar cast, talented team of filmmakers, and a compelling storyline inspired by a real-life MMA legend, “The Smashing Machine” is poised to make a significant impact in the world of cinema upon its release in 2025.
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