Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's 'The Smashing Machine' hits streaming

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s portrayal of mixed martial artist Mark Kerr in the sports biopic The Smashing Machine is now available for streaming, despite a limited theatrical run. The film, directed by Benny Safdie and also starring Emily Blunt, delves into Kerr’s life as a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion, his struggles with opioid addiction, and a complex personal relationship.

A Transformative Role for Johnson

Though The Smashing Machine debuted with just $6 million at the box office, Dwayne Johnson has described the role as profoundly impactful. He stated that playing Kerr “has changed (his) life,” emphasizing the importance of performance and commitment to fully embodying a character. Johnson shared on Instagram in October 2025 that he prioritizes the artistic process of transformation over box office results.

Did You Know? A documentary also titled “The Smashing Machine” about Mark Kerr originally aired on HBO in 2002.

Where to Watch

Viewers can stream The Smashing Machine on HBO Max beginning Friday, January 23, with new content typically launching at 3:01 a.m. ET / 12:01 a.m. PT. The film will also be broadcast on the HBO television channel on Saturday, January 24, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Digital Availability

For those preferring to own or rent, The Smashing Machine, which initially hit theaters on October 3, 2025, is currently available on digital platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home.

Expert Insight: Johnson’s emphasis on the transformative power of acting, even in the face of commercial disappointment, speaks to a broader trend in Hollywood where actors are increasingly prioritizing challenging roles over guaranteed blockbusters. This could signal a shift towards valuing artistic merit and performance depth within the industry.

The Cast of The Smashing Machine

Dwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr
Emily Blunt as Dawn Staples
Ryan Bader as Mark Coleman
Bas Rutten as Bas
Oleksandr Usyk as Igor Vovchanchyn

Looking Ahead

While the film’s initial box office performance was modest, its availability on streaming platforms could broaden its audience. It remains to be seen if this increased accessibility will generate further discussion and recognition for both the film and Johnson’s performance. The film’s themes of addiction and personal struggle could also resonate with viewers, potentially leading to a longer-term impact beyond initial viewership numbers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Smashing Machine about?

The Smashing Machine is a biopic about mixed martial artist Mark Kerr, a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion, and his battles with opioid addiction and personal relationships.

Who directed The Smashing Machine?

Benny Safdie directed The Smashing Machine.

Where can I stream The Smashing Machine?

The Smashing Machine is available to stream on HBO Max starting January 23 and will air on the HBO television channel on January 24.

What aspects of Mark Kerr’s story resonated most with Dwayne Johnson as an actor?

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s ‘The Smashing Machine’ hits streaming