The Smashing Machine: A cinematic journey into the world of MMA, directed by Benny Safdie and starring Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, has sparked both critical acclaim and box office disappointment. But how can you experience this intense drama at home? Let's dive in!
This film, inspired by the 2002 documentary, plunges into the life of Mark Kerr, a mixed martial arts fighter, exploring his personal and professional struggles. It also offers a raw look at Kerr's complex relationship with his girlfriend, Dawn Staples, played by Emily Blunt.
A Box Office Knockout?
Despite the buzz surrounding Johnson's involvement, the film didn't quite land a knockout punch at the box office. In fact, it holds the unfortunate record for Johnson's worst opening weekend, grossing only $6 million against a $50 million budget. But here's where it gets controversial: critics, like /Film's Bill Bria, have lauded it as a powerful and subversive MMA drama, and it even snagged the Silver Lion at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival.
Watching at Home
Fortunately, if you missed the theatrical release, you're in luck! As of November 4, 2025, A24 made "The Smashing Machine" available on PVOD platforms such as Prime Video, YouTube, and Fandango at Home. You can rent it for $19.99 or purchase a digital copy for $24.99.
For the Physical Media Fanatics
Are you a collector of physical media? You can pre-order the 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray versions on the A24 website. They are expected to ship sometime in January 2026. This is a common practice for A24, known for its unique packaging and presentation of its films. The Blu-ray version will include exciting bonus features like a director's commentary with Benny Safdie, a featurette called "What It Means to be a Fighter," a 16mm camera test, deleted scenes, and a set of six collectible postcards.
What's Next for Safdie and Johnson?
Despite the film's financial performance, the collaboration between Safdie and Johnson is far from over. They're teaming up again at Amazon MGM for "Lizard Music," an adaptation of Daniel Pinkwater's sci-fi/fantasy children's novel. Safdie will once again handle the directorial and screenwriting duties.
Controversy & Comment Hooks:
Do you think the critical acclaim justifies the financial underperformance? What do you think about the decision to release the film on PVOD so quickly? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And, are you excited about the upcoming collaboration between Safdie and Johnson? Let us know!
