The Rock Says He Wants to Make More Movies “That Matter” – The Smashing Machine

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, renowned for his larger-than-life roles in action-packed blockbusters, is embarking on a new cinematic journey with his upcoming film, The Smashing Machine. Directed by Benny Safdie, this drama delves into the fast-moving and tumultuous life of Mark Kerr, a real-life extreme fighter known for both his brutal bouts in mixed martial arts and his personal struggles with drug addiction.

The Rock’s Shift in Perspective

In a recent interview with Variety, Johnson expressed his desire to explore new horizons in his acting career. While still committed to the adrenaline-fueled spectacles he is best known for, he seeks to create films that resonate on a deeper level, tackling themes of humanity, struggle, and pain.

“I’m at a point in my career where I want to push myself in ways that I’ve not pushed myself in the past. I want to make films that matter,” Johnson stated emphatically, emphasizing his commitment to exploring the human experience through his craft.

A Raw and Authentic Tale

Johnson’s enthusiasm for The Smashing Machine stems from its raw and authentic storytelling. Safdie, the director, is dedicated to presenting a narrative that is both genuine and at times uncomfortable, capturing the essence of Mark Kerr’s challenging journey. Johnson’s portrayal of Kerr aims to showcase the humanity behind the fighter, shedding light on the struggles that shaped his life. The actor remarked, “I want to be clear not to say that this is an abandonment of big, four-quadrant movies. I love making them, and there is tremendous value and importance in [them]. But there’s a time and a place for them. I’m at this point in my career where I want more.”

Benny Safdie, hailed by Johnson as the perfect collaborator, shares his passion for storytelling that transcends the boundaries of traditional genres. Johnson commends Safdie’s hunger for authenticity, making him an ideal partner for this new phase in his career. The collaboration promises a film that not only entertains but also resonates on a profound emotional level.

Beyond His Latest Instalment

While The Smashing Machine marks a departure from Johnson’s typical repertoire, it does not signal an end to his involvement in big-budget, action-adventure movies. Johnson assures fans that he remains committed to such projects, recognizing their value and importance in the cinematic landscape.

“I want more humanity. And that is why Benny Safdie is the perfect, collaborative, hungry partner for me,” Johnson explained, highlighting his commitment to a diverse range of projects that reflect his evolving artistic ambitions. In addition to The Smashing Machine, Johnson’s future projects include the holiday film Red One alongside Chris Evans, the eagerly anticipated Jungle Cruise 2, and more instalments in the beloved Fast & Furious franchise. This diverse lineup showcases Johnson’s versatility as an actor, reaffirming his ability to seamlessly transition between genres.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s decision to embrace more dramatic roles signifies a compelling evolution in his illustrious career. While he remains dedicated to delivering high-octane thrills in blockbuster films, his commitment to exploring the depths of human experience through projects like The Smashing Machine demonstrates a desire to make movies that truly matter. As audiences eagerly anticipate this new chapter, Johnson’s cinematic journey promises to be a captivating blend of action, emotion, and authenticity.