Introduction
The day that film enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting appears to be here. As per early trade reports and unofficial theater listings, The Smashing Machine, one of the year’s most anticipated biographical dramas, is beginning its theatrical rollout in India today, Friday, October 10, 2025. Directed by the acclaimed Benny Safdie and featuring a career-defining performance from Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, this is more than just a movie; it’s a cinematic event.
While the official wide India theatrical listing is rolling out region-wise, the buzz is undeniable. This powerful and unflinching look at the life of a champion is a film that demands to be seen on the big screen.
Quick Info
- 🎬 Director: Benny Safdie
- ⭐ Lead Actor: Dwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr
- 🎭 Co-Star: Emily Blunt
- 🎥 Genre: Biographical Sports Drama
- 🏆 Awards Buzz: Strong speculation from festival circuits
A Transformation You Have to See to Believe
Forget everything you know about Dwayne Johnson. In The Smashing Machine, the global superstar sheds his action-hero persona to deliver a raw, vulnerable, and transformative performance as legendary MMA fighter Mark Kerr. He is joined by the acclaimed Emily Blunt, who plays a pivotal role in Kerr’s tumultuous life. Johnson embodies Kerr’s immense physical power and his deep internal struggles, creating a complex and haunting portrait of a man battling opponents both inside and outside the cage.
From the Visionary Director of 'Uncut Gems'
At the helm is Benny Safdie, a director known for crafting high-tension, anxiety-inducing films like the globally acclaimed Uncut Gems. He brings his signature gritty, immersive style to the world of mixed martial arts, plunging the audience directly into the brutal reality of Kerr’s life. This isn’t a glossy, sanitized biopic; it’s a visceral exploration of ambition, addiction, and the true cost of greatness.
The Unflinching Story of a Champion
Based on the acclaimed 2002 HBO documentary The Smashing Machine: The Life and Times of Mark Kerr, the film chronicles the meteoric rise and devastating fall of the two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion. It fearlessly explores the “no-holds-barred” era of MMA while simultaneously delving into Kerr’s personal battles with painkiller addiction and the immense pressure to maintain his invincible image. This is not just a sports film—it’s a psychological war of identity, fame, and self-destruction.
An Authentic and Immersive Experience
Early Hollywood critic circles suggest strong awards buzz for the film, particularly praising its stunning authenticity. From the meticulously recreated fight sequences to the raw emotional honesty of the performances, every frame is designed to feel real and immediate. Safdie’s direction makes you feel every punch, every victory, and every heartbreaking setback right alongside the characters.
How to Check for Showtimes
As the film begins its regional rollout, showtime listings are expected to be updated progressively. This is the movie everyone will be talking about, so to catch it on the opening weekend, it’s best to stay updated. Check BookMyShow or your preferred ticketing platform as listings begin updating in your city. For the ultimate viewing experience, look out for premium formats like IMAX and Dolby Cinema.
This isn’t just another sports biopic—it’s a brutal character study. If you’re planning just one theater watch this month, make it this one. Witness the transformation of a superstar and the powerful, true story of a champion’s fight for his life as the cinematic event of the season arrives.
