"The Smashing Machine" is a drama that delves deeply into the world of mixed martial arts during the late 1990s, blending intense sports action with profound personal struggles. Typical elements of the drama genre present include character-driven storytelling, emotional conflicts, and the exploration of human vulnerabilities, such as Mark Kerr's battle with opioid addiction and his turbulent relationship with his girlfriend, Dawn. What makes this title stand out among other dramas is its raw and authentic portrayal of the physical and psychological challenges faced by a professional fighter striving for greatness, offering an intimate look at both the adrenaline-fueled world of MMA and the harsh realities behind the scenes.
Critics' Reviews
80
Set between 1997 and 2000, during the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s wild pioneer years — when rules such as “no eye-gouging” were gradually introduced — The Smashing Machine tells a story of loss, and learning to lose. It begins with Mark Kerr’s first professional fight, and ends with him broken, rebuilt, and broken again, courtesy of an extraordinary performance from Dwayne Johnson.
Full Cast of The Smashing Machine
Emily Blunt
Dawn Staples
Emily Blunt does not appear in the movie 'The Smashing Machine.' This documentary, released in 2002, focuses on the life of mixed martial artist Mark Kerr and does not feature Emily Blunt in any role. Therefore, there is no information on her performance in this film or how it fits into her overall career. Emily Blunt is better known for roles in films like 'The Devil Wears Prada,' 'Edge of Tomorrow,' and 'A Quiet Place.'
Bethany Brown
Nurse
Takao Osawa
Nobuyuki Sakakibara
Shawn C. Orr
Demolition Derby Driver
Dwayne Johnson
Mark Kerr
Hugo Steele
Firefighter
Paul Wu
Pride Referee (2000) , Pride 2000 Referee
Marcus Aurelio
Mestre Hulk
Jason William Day
HGE Sparring Partner
Paul Lazenby
Hans Nijman (uncredited)
Andre Tricoteux
Paul Varelans
Crew of The Smashing Machine
Full backstage crew list →- Released October 01, 2025