Benny Safdie’s (Uncut Gems, Good Time) solo debut THE SMASHING MACHINE arrives fresh from its world premiere at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival, where Safdie won the Silver Lion for best director, and stars a transformed Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt.

THE SMASHING MACHINE tells the story of Mark Kerr (Johnson), a pioneer of mixed-martial arts and UFC, detailing his personal and professional hardships on the way to becoming a champion. Supported by his devoted yet tormented wife Dawn Staples (Blunt), Kerr’s dedication to growing the popularity of MMA and UFC is a brutal and painful road. Partnering constant international travels and a gradually increasing painkiller addiction, the journey Kerr takes is one that enacts a toll, both professionally and personally.

Told in a quasi-documentary style, with a score from Belgian composer Nala Sinephro, THE SMASHING MACHINE is a statement piece about the pursuit of greatness.