The recent trip by Dwayne Johnson to the Cannes Film Festival has proven to be a fruitful endeavor for the upcoming MMA fighting drama, The Smashing Machine. The biopic, which stars Johnson as legendary MMA fighter Mark Kerr, has wrapped production in Japan and is set for a U.S. release in 2025. The film, written, directed, and produced by Benny Safdie, has secured a number of key deals following its sales launch at Cannes.
Global Distribution
A24, the production company behind The Smashing Machine, has announced an impressive list of international distribution partners for the film. Key territories such as the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Japan, Latin America, Spain, South Africa, Scandinavia, Benelux, Italy, China, South Korea, CIS, CEE, Ukraine, Middle East, Israel, Baltics, Turkey, and Portugal have all secured the rights to distribute the movie. This extensive global reach speaks to the widespread appeal and anticipation surrounding the project.
A Compelling Story
The Smashing Machine follows the journey of MMA fighter Mark Kerr during the no-holds-barred era of the UFC. As Kerr navigates the peak of his career, the film delves into his personal struggles, self-reflection, and complex relationships. Emily Blunt co-stars as Kerr’s girlfriend, later wife, and ex-wife, Dawn Staples, adding an emotional depth to the narrative. The film promises to explore the inner workings of a champion fighter’s tumultuous world, highlighting both the glory and turmoil that come with success.
Producers of The Smashing Machine include a powerhouse team of industry veterans, including Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, David Koplan, and Eli Bush. Safdie’s vision, combined with A24’s production and financing support, has brought this compelling story to life on the big screen. Johnson’s personal involvement in the project, from production to promotion, underscores his dedication to bringing Kerr’s story to a global audience.
Mark Kerr’s storied career as an MMA fighter is a key inspiration behind The Smashing Machine. As a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion, World Vale Tudo Championship winner, and PRIDE FC Heavyweight Champion, Kerr’s legacy looms large in the world of mixed martial arts. The film’s title pays homage to the 2003 HBO documentary that chronicled Kerr’s journey through the ranks of Vale Tudo, UFC, and PRIDE, solidifying his status as a true legend in the sport.
The Smashing Machine’s success at Cannes and its subsequent distribution deals exemplify the anticipation and excitement surrounding this impactful biopic. With a stellar cast, a compelling narrative, and a dedicated team behind the scenes, the film is poised to make a significant impact upon its release in 2025.