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Johnson's 'Smashing Machine' Eyes Oscar Gold
20 Dec, 2025
Summary
- The Mark Kerr biopic 'The Smashing Machine' is on the Oscar shortlist.
- Dwayne Johnson stars as UFC Hall of Famer Mark Kerr.
- The film is competing in the Best Makeup and Hairstyling category.
The biopic "The Smashing Machine," featuring Dwayne Johnson as UFC Hall of Famer Mark Kerr, has advanced in the Oscar race. The film was named among 10 contenders on the Academy Awards shortlist for Best Makeup and Hairstyling, with five nominees to be selected in February.
Directed by Benny Safdie, the film premiered at the Venice International Film Festival in September, securing the Silver Lion award. It garnered positive reviews and a "Certified Fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes, though its box office reception was underwhelming.
Johnson, who also produced the film through his Seven Bucks Productions, worked closely with Kerr. The movie, based on a 20-year-old documentary, also features Emily Blunt and former Bellator champion Ryan Bader in supporting roles.
