Story perspectives

Authentic Biopic 'The Smashing Machine' Celebrates 90s MMA

12/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Director Benny Safdie's biopic "The Smashing Machine" portrays Mark Kerr, with Dwayne Johnson playing Kerr.
The film aims for authenticity by using vintage footage and input from MMA stars to honor 1990s MMA fights.
Cinematographer Maceo Bishop uses camera techniques to maintain a distance mirroring live events.
Sound design records realistic impact noises to avoid clichés.
Safdie faced challenges directing heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, who adapted his boxing style.

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Story summary

Director Benny Safdie's biopic "The Smashing Machine" portrays Mark Kerr, with Dwayne Johnson playing Kerr.
The film aims for authenticity by using vintage footage and input from MMA stars to honor 1990s MMA fights.
Cinematographer Maceo Bishop uses camera techniques to maintain a distance mirroring live events.
Sound design records realistic impact noises to avoid clichés.
Safdie faced challenges directing heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, who adapted his boxing style.