Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, and Benny Safdie Benefit from Josh Brolin's Support
Emily Blunt revealed why she cried upon first seeing Dwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine, as the film campaigns for Oscar recognition. Despite disappointing box office results, Benny Safdie’s The Smashing Machine retains strong support, prompting A24 to pursue awards season prospects.
Event Highlights
On Tuesday night, Josh Brolin traveled from Santa Barbara to the Lynwood Dunn Theater in Hollywood to moderate an engaging Q&A with Safdie, Blunt, and Johnson. Brolin, a fan of the film, participated in a lively discussion about the movie and its stars.
"Insightful, smart, funny, easy to digest, and always newsworthy,"
"Always informative and honest."
Film Details
The Smashing Machine is set primarily in the early 2000s. It depicts Johnson as Mark Kerr, a pioneering UFC fighter who defies typical expectations of his profession. Blunt plays Dawn Staples, Kerr's wife, who struggles with her own issues. The film premiered at the 2025 Venice Film Festival, where Safdie won the Best Director award.
Industry Insights
The event was largely a celebration of talent and mutual admiration. Although Brolin and Johnson, lifelong friends, haven't shared on-screen roles together, Brolin appeared with Blunt in Sicario, and Johnson starred with Blunt in Jungle Cruise.
Author’s summary: The event showcased strong industry support for The Smashing Machine, highlighting talented performances and the ongoing pursuit of awards despite modest box office success.
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