The Smashing Machine is a gritty biographical sports drama written and directed by Benny Safdie, starring Dwayne Johnson as real-life MMA fighter Mark Kerr.
The film explores Kerr’s intense rise and fall in the world of mixed martial arts, highlighting his addiction struggles, emotional battles, and the brutal toll of professional fighting.
Alongside Johnson, the film features Emily Blunt as Kerr’s then-wife Dawn Staples, with supporting roles from Ryan Bader, Bas Rutten, and Oleksandr Usyk.
Shot on 16mm film and scored by Belgian musician Nala Sinephro, the project captures a raw and emotional portrayal of one man’s fight — both inside and outside the cage.
The Smashing Machine Age Rating
The Smashing Machine has been rated R by the MPAA for language and some drug abuse. Parents should be aware that the film’s themes are heavy and realistic, portraying the darker aspects of fame, addiction, and physical trauma.
Violence & Peril
While not an action film, The Smashing Machine includes realistic depictions of mixed martial arts fights, featuring heavy physical contact, blood, and bodily injury.
These scenes are intense but not stylized for entertainment — they aim to reflect the brutality of real-life MMA. Outside the ring, emotional confrontations and physical collapse due to substance abuse add to the intensity.
Language
Strong language is present throughout the film, with frequent use of expletives including the f-word and other harsh terms.
The tone is often aggressive or emotionally raw, reflecting the high-pressure environment Kerr inhabits.
Sexual Content
The film does not contain explicit sexual scenes, but there are references to intimacy and strained relationships.
Some moments may involve mild nudity or suggestive dialogue between adult characters, but nothing overtly graphic.
Drug Use
Drug abuse is a major theme. The story chronicles Kerr’s dependency on painkillers and other substances, with scenes showing drug consumption, withdrawal symptoms, and its consequences on his body and mind. These moments are stark and intended to convey the severity of addiction.
Mature Themes
Themes of mental health, emotional vulnerability, addiction, and physical self-destruction are central to the film.
Characters struggle with identity, fame, and coping mechanisms in the face of overwhelming pressure. The tone is often somber and adult-oriented.
Is The Smashing Machine Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable. The film’s intense drug use, strong language, and mature emotional content make it inappropriate for this age group.
Ages 13–17: Even mature teens may find the film’s raw portrayal of addiction, emotional instability, and physical trauma unsettling. Its R rating reflects serious adult subject matter that may not be appropriate for younger viewers.
The Smashing Machine is best suited for older teens (15+) with parental guidance. Its artistic merit and emotional depth may appeal to some, but the unflinching depiction of real-life struggles makes it a difficult watch for younger audiences.
What Parents Can Do
Understand the Real Story: The film is based on a real athlete’s life and struggles. Consider researching Mark Kerr’s background to provide historical context if your teen insists on watching.
Talk About Substance Abuse: Use the film as a conversation starter about addiction, emotional health, and the pressures of professional sports.
Watch First or Together: If your teen is older and interested in biopics or combat sports, consider previewing the film or watching it together to help discuss difficult scenes.
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for The Smashing Machine?
A: The film is rated R for language and some drug abuse.
Q: Is The Smashing Machine violent?
A: The film includes realistic MMA fight scenes and emotionally intense moments but is not a traditional action movie.
Q: Does the film show drug use?
A: Yes, drug abuse is a central theme, with several scenes depicting substance use and its physical/mental effects.
Q: Is there any sexual content in the movie?
A: There are references to relationships and possibly mild nudity, but nothing explicit.
Q: Where and when does The Smashing Machine release?
A: The film will be released by A24 on October 3, 2025. It was filmed in Albuquerque, Tokyo, and Vancouver.