Dwayne Johnson Moves the Audience to Tears as ‘The Smashing Machine’ Earns 15-Minute Standing Ovation and Sparks Oscar Buzz in Venice

Is Dwayne Johnson heading to the Oscars?

After an emotional screening of “The Smashing Machine” at the Venice Film Festival, many think it’s a real possibility. The crowd gave Johnson a 15-minute standing ovation, one of the longest this year, which left him in tears.

In this film, Johnson takes on the role of Mark Kerr, a ’90s fighter struggling with personal demons. He stars alongside Emily Blunt, who plays his character’s girlfriend, Dawn Staples. The film’s director, Benny Safdie, joined Johnson on stage, both men emotional as the applause continued. Even Kerr himself shed tears during the credits.

This premiere stands out, drawing comparisons to Brendan Fraser’s heartfelt moment at the festival four years ago, which launched his Oscar campaign for “The Whale.”

Before the screening, a fan excitedly shouted Johnson’s classic WWE line: “Can you smell what the Rock is cooking?” The atmosphere was light-hearted as Johnson engaged with the audience, enjoying the night.

Johnson’s transformation for this role is remarkable. He underwent extensive prosthetic work to closely resemble Kerr, a two-time UFC Heavyweight champion. Johnson expressed his desire to take on more challenging roles. He said, “I want to make films that matter.” His collaboration with Safdie, known for crafting raw and authentic stories, marks a pivotal turn in his career away from blockbuster hits like “Jumanji” and “Fast and Furious.”

This film showcases Safdie’s growth as a director. It marks his first solo directorial venture after notable works with his brother Josh, like “Good Time” and “Uncut Gems.” Blunt reunites with Safdie from “Oppenheimer,” and she shares a fun dynamic with Johnson from their time in “Jungle Cruise.”

As awards season begins, Johnson’s powerful performance might just place him in the Oscar conversation. It’s worth keeping an eye on how “The Smashing Machine” resonates with audiences and critics alike in the coming months. The buzz around this film highlights a shift in Hollywood, where stories focusing on real struggles and character depth are becoming more celebrated.

For expert opinions on award trends, check out this Variety article.

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Dwayne Johnson,The Smashing Machine,Venice Film Festival