Dwayne Johnson is one of Hollywood’s biggest action stars, but his next project will be unlike anything we’ve seen him in before. The Rock landed the lead role in Benny Safdie’s next film The Smashing Machine, inspired by the life and legacy of the UFC legend Mark Kerr.
Johnson’s company Seven Bucks Productions acquired rights for this biopic in 2019, and he’s been trying to bring it to life ever since. He found a perfect partner in crime in Safdie, who’ll direct the biopic which centers on Kerr’s struggle with addiction, winning, love, and friendship in the year 2000.
Safdie previously co-directed and co-wrote A24’s smash hit Uncut Gems alongside his brother Josh. The company’s head of film Noah Sacco is looking forward to getting back in business with the acclaimed filmmaker.
“Dwayne and Benny are singular talents, and their shared vision for Mark’s inspiring story is electrifying. We are deeply honored to have their trust as collaborators in bringing this incredibly special project to life,” said Sacco in a statement.
In addition to playing the lead role, Johnson is also coming on board as an executive producer alongside his Seven Bucks’s production partner Dany Garcia, plus Eli Bush, David Koplan, and Safdie through his Out for the Count banner.
