A24’s ‘The Smashing Machine’ Receives 15-Minute Standing Ovation at Venice Film Festival

by

Summary

  • Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s film, The Smashing Machine, received a 15-minute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival
  • Johnson, director Benny Safdie and fighter Mark Kerr were all moved to tears
  • The actor stated he is now more interested in creating “films that matter”

Feeling incredibly humbled and emotional, I found myself shedding tears of joy when my latest project, The Smashing Machine, was greeted with a staggering fifteen-minute standing ovation during the Venice Film Festival. What an unforgettable moment!

Alongside her co-star Emily Blunt, director Benny Safdie (making his first solo directorial effort), and the real-life character Mark Kerr – whose life serves as the basis for the A24 biopic – joined Johnson. Both Safdie and Kerr displayed strong emotions, shedding tears alongside the actor.

In an earlier conversation with Variety, the ex-WWE champion, known for movies like The Mummy, Fast and Furious, and Jumanji, expressed his newfound passion for creating films that carry significance. He stated, “I’m at a stage in my acting career where I am eager to challenge myself beyond what I’ve previously accomplished.” Further, he shared his desire to produce movies that delve into human experiences, hardships, and emotion.

Additionally, he emphasized that Safdie consistently challenges boundaries with narratives that are raw, genuine, and occasionally unsettling or captivating, featuring authentic characters.

The Smashing Machine is set to release in US theaters on October 3.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by HYPEBEAST (@hypebeast)

Read More

2025-09-02 12:25