In the not-so-distant past, MMA faced severe scrutiny, including being targeted for elimination by U.S. Sen. John McCain and criticized for its brutality despite organizations like UFC and Pride vying for limited airtime. Mark Kerr, known as the “Smashing Machine,” emerged in this tumultuous landscape, standing at six-foot-three and over 250 pounds, dominating opponents in the octagon.
Kerr’s persona is a study in contrasts: a fierce competitor in the ring yet displaying a gentle demeanor outside of it. The film “The Smashing Machine,” led by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, delves into Kerr’s career, depicting his rise, fall, and eventual redemption. Initially basking in success with championship belts and his wife Dawn by his side, Kerr’s narrative takes a darker turn with struggles including addiction, missed opportunities, and personal conflicts.
Despite Kerr’s prowess in the ring, his aversion to real-life confrontations is evident, emphasizing his ability to bend opponents to his will. The film portrays Kerr’s internal battle as he grapples with his own vulnerabilities and setbacks, shedding light on the evolution of MMA from its early days to its current regulated state.
However, “The Smashing Machine” falters in delivering a cohesive storyline, instead presenting a fragmented series of events without a clear character arc. While Johnson’s portrayal of Kerr is commendable, the film’s script fails to capitalize on his performance, resulting in a lackluster portrayal of a struggling athlete and his tumultuous marriage. The movie lacks the depth to truly engage viewers, missing the opportunity to offer profound insights into Kerr’s journey or the sport itself.
Despite its shortcomings, the film’s exploration of Kerr’s character and struggles aligns with the longstanding tradition in cinema of portraying pugilists facing personal and professional challenges. While Johnson’s acting prowess shines through, the film ultimately falls short in delivering a compelling narrative that resonates beyond surface-level drama.
Overall, “The Smashing Machine” presents a familiar tale of a fighter grappling with inner demons and external pressures, echoing past cinematic portrayals of athletes facing adversity. Though the film showcases Johnson’s acting range, its narrative shortcomings prevent it from standing out amidst a sea of similar stories in the sports drama genre.
