Here’s a bold statement: The Smashing Machine, Dwayne Johnson’s gritty A24 drama, bombed at the box office—but its journey is far from over. And this is the part most people miss: despite earning just $20.2 million against a $40 million budget, the film is now available on VOD, giving audiences a second chance to experience Johnson’s most transformative role to date. But here’s where it gets controversial: did moviegoers overlook a cinematic gem, or did the film simply fail to connect with its intended audience? Let’s dive in.
Directed by Benny Safdie, The Smashing Machine tells the powerful story of Mark Kerr, a UFC champion whose rise in the early days of MMA is overshadowed by his battles with painkiller addiction and a tumultuous relationship with his girlfriend, Dawn Staples (played by Emily Blunt). It’s a raw, unflinching portrayal of physical and psychological struggle—a far cry from Johnson’s typical blockbuster fare. Bold claim: this role could redefine how we see Johnson as an actor. But will audiences give it a chance now that it’s streaming?
In a rare move, Johnson addressed the film’s box office disappointment on Instagram, though he focused on its creative success. “From deep in my grateful bones, thank you to everyone who has watched The Smashing Machine,” he wrote. “You can’t control box office results, but you can control your performance and commitment to the role. This film has changed my life.” Controversial question: Is Johnson’s gratitude enough to shift the narrative, or does the film’s failure highlight a disconnect between critics’ praise and audience interest?
Our own Chris Bumbray praised the film, calling it a “success for A24 in every way” and applauding Johnson’s reinvention. But here’s the kicker: if critics loved it and Johnson’s fans were eager to see him in a new light, why didn’t it resonate at the box office? Thought-provoking question: Are audiences more comfortable streaming unconventional films at home rather than taking a risk in theaters?
Now that The Smashing Machine is on VOD, the ball’s in your court. Will you give it a chance? And speaking of theaters, what’s keeping you away? Is it ticket prices, time constraints, or the convenience of home viewing? Controversial interpretation: Could the rise of VOD be the death knell for risk-taking cinema, or is it a lifeline for films that don’t fit the blockbuster mold?
Let’s spark a conversation. What’s your take? Did The Smashing Machine deserve better, or did it miss the mark? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’re all ears.
