Story perspectives

Dwayne Johnson's "The Smashing Machine" Eyes $20M Debut

9/12/2025

Summary

Story summary

A24's "The Smashing Machine," featuring Dwayne Johnson, is expected to earn about $20 million during its opening weekend starting October 3.
The film, based on UFC champion Mark Kerr, premiered at the Venice Film Festival, earning a 15-minute standing ovation.
Director Benny Safdie received the Silver Lion award for Best Director at the festival.
The film has an 80% "fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes and targets audiences over 25.
If projections are accurate, it will become A24's second-highest debut after "Civil War."

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Story summary

A24's "The Smashing Machine," featuring Dwayne Johnson, is expected to earn about $20 million during its opening weekend starting October 3.
The film, based on UFC champion Mark Kerr, premiered at the Venice Film Festival, earning a 15-minute standing ovation.
Director Benny Safdie received the Silver Lion award for Best Director at the festival.
The film has an 80% "fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes and targets audiences over 25.
If projections are accurate, it will become A24's second-highest debut after "Civil War."