Here’s a bold statement: The Smashing Machine, Dwayne Johnson’s gritty A24 drama, bombed at the box office despite rave reviews. But here’s where it gets controversial—could audiences have missed out on one of Johnson’s most transformative performances to date? Now, the film is available on VOD, giving viewers a second chance to decide for themselves. And this is the part most people miss: this isn’t your typical Dwayne Johnson blockbuster. Directed by Benny Safdie, the movie dives deep into the rise and fall of Mark Kerr, a UFC champion whose battles with painkiller addiction and a tumultuous relationship with Dawn Staples (played by Emily Blunt) take a devastating toll on his life and career. It’s raw, it’s intense, and it’s a far cry from Johnson’s usual action-hero roles.
Despite its critical acclaim, The Smashing Machine opened to a disappointing $20.2 million against a $40 million budget. In a rare move, Johnson addressed the flop on Instagram, thanking fans for their support and reflecting on the creative journey. “You can’t control box office results,” he wrote, “but you can control your commitment to the role.” His words highlight a bold truth: sometimes, artistic risk doesn’t pay off commercially, but does that make it any less valuable? Controversial take: Could it be that audiences aren’t ready for a vulnerable, dramatic Dwayne Johnson, or did the film simply fail to connect with its intended crowd?
Our reviewer, Chris Bumbray, praised the film, calling it a testament to Johnson’s reinvention and Safdie’s visionary direction. “It’s a film that deserves to be seen,” he wrote. Now that it’s on VOD, the question remains: will you give it a chance? And here’s a thought-provoking question for you: What’s keeping you from watching more films like this? Is it the comfort of home viewing, the cost of theater tickets, or the convenience of digital releases? Let’s spark a debate—comment below and share your thoughts. Bold prediction: This film might not have won at the box office, but it could become a cult classic for those willing to look beyond the numbers.
