Christopher Nolan Hails Dwayne Johnson's Performance in 'The Smashing Machine'

Christopher Nolan has shared his admiration for 'The Smashing Machine,' the new biographical drama directed by Benny Safdie and starring Dwayne Johnson as MMA legend Mark Kerr. Although the film struggled at the box office, the 'Oppenheimer' filmmaker believes it’s a remarkable and daring piece of cinema that will gain appreciation over time.

Safdie's 'The Smashing Machine' follows Kerr's journey through the highs and lows of his mixed martial arts career, exploring his battle with addiction and mental health after his first major defeat. 

Dwayne Johnson's intense and emotional portrayal has earned widespread critical acclaim, with many critics calling it one of the strongest performances of his career. Despite the praise and a standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival, the film has grossed just $12 million globally against a $50 million production budget.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

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Christopher Nolan Praises The Film

During a recent discussion with Safdie on 'The Director's Cut' podcast, Christopher Nolan commended the film for its bold storytelling and raw emotional power. He described Johnson's performance as deeply moving and one of the most outstanding portrayals audiences are likely to see this year. Nolan also applauded Safdie's direction, calling the film an ambitious and radical work that pushes creative boundaries within the biopic genre.

In a lighter moment, Nolan teased Safdie about recruiting actress Emily Blunt for 'The Smashing Machine' while they were both filming 'Oppenheimer.' The director noted that Blunt's involvement adds even more depth to the film, marking another strong collaboration between two actors who have become known for their intensity and range.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

Dwayne Johnson's Response to The Film's Performance

Meanwhile, Dwayne Johnson has responded gracefully to the film's underwhelming financial performance. He shared that box office numbers don't define the value of a story and that 'The Smashing Machine' has been a transformative experience in his career and personal life.

Despite its commercial challenges, 'The Smashing Machine' continues to generate awards buzz for Johnson's performance and Safdie's direction. The film's raw depiction of resilience, addiction, and redemption has resonated with critics and cinephiles alike, positioning it as a potential cult favourite in the years ahead.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

As for Nolan, his next directorial venture will be 'The Odyssey,' a cinematic adaptation of the ancient Greek epic. The project reunites him with actor Elliot Page, who recently reflected on the joy of returning to work with Nolan more than a decade after 'Inception.'

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