The dramatic sports film 'The Smashing Machine' has made its way to Indian streaming screens. Prime Video subscribers in India can now watch Dwayne Johnson's most serious acting role in recent years. The movie started streaming on January 16, 2026, bringing the story of MMA legend Mark Kerr to a wider audience.
What Makes This Film Different
'The Smashing Machine' follows the turbulent career of mixed martial arts fighter Mark Kerr. The film covers his peak years from 1997 to 2000. During this period, Kerr competed in major fighting organizations including the UFC and Japan's Pride Fighting Championships.
Director Benny Safdie presents an unflinching look at Kerr's life. The film does not shy away from showing the physical and emotional damage behind the victories. It portrays Kerr's painful struggle with painkiller addiction in raw detail. The addiction connects directly to the brutal punishment his body endured inside the fighting cage.
A Transformative Performance
Dwayne Johnson undergoes a remarkable physical transformation for this role. Oscar-winning makeup artist Kazu Hiro created prosthetics that make Johnson nearly unrecognizable as Mark Kerr. Critics have praised Johnson for moving away from his usual charismatic screen presence. He delivers a quieter, more vulnerable performance that shows new dimensions of his acting ability.
Emily Blunt plays Dawn Staples, Kerr's girlfriend in the film. Their relationship forms the emotional core of the story. Blunt's character tries desperately to hold onto Kerr as his career demands and addiction problems threaten to tear him apart. The film explores their complicated and often difficult relationship with emotional depth.
Realistic Fight Scenes and Cameos
The movie aims for authenticity in its fight sequences. Real-life fighters appear throughout the film to add credibility. Heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk makes an appearance. MMA fighter Ryan Bader also appears, playing the role of fellow fighter Mark Coleman.
Theatrical Performance and Awards Recognition
'The Smashing Machine' had a modest theatrical run in late 2025. The film earned approximately 21 million dollars worldwide against a production budget reported at 50 million dollars. This commercial performance occurred despite generally positive reviews from critics.
The film has received recognition during awards season. Director Benny Safdie won the Silver Lion for Best Direction at the Venice Film Festival. Dwayne Johnson's performance has generated awards buzz at events including the Golden Globes and Astra Film Awards.
Streaming Availability in India
Indian viewers can now access 'The Smashing Machine' through their Prime Video subscriptions. The streaming version includes the original English audio track. Multiple subtitle options are available for viewers who need them. This OTT release provides a convenient way for Indian audiences to watch a film that received limited theatrical distribution in the country.
The film's arrival on streaming platforms gives it a second chance to find its audience. While it struggled commercially in cinemas, the powerful performances and raw storytelling may connect more strongly with viewers in the comfort of their homes. For Dwayne Johnson fans and sports drama enthusiasts in India, 'The Smashing Machine' offers a compelling viewing experience that differs significantly from the actor's typical blockbuster roles.
