The Smashing Machine
With the mid reviews, we were all worried about The Smashing Machine, but since Jord, myself and my dad all picked it for the Movie Fantasy League, there was no missing out on The Rock’s attempted comeback as a serious actor, and upon reflection, I’m glad we didn’t skip it. While the importance of its story is pretty low, I appreciate Benny Safdie’s directing style and take on a the sports genre. The Rock’s performance is genuinely good, and the prosthetics he’s wearing are amazing. For the first time I can ever remember, there were times on screen where he truly exhibited a character that wasn’t just himself, and he gave Mark Kerr, one of the pioneering fighters of the UFC, a lot of nuance. Ryan Bader, who stars alongside the Rock and portrays Mark Coleman, but is himself also a MMA fighter, was also excellent despite this being his first ever acting role. I wouldn’t go out of your way to see this, but I think you’ll enjoy it if you do.
-Z
Wow, The Rock can act, there is no doubt in my mind now. I do hope he gets nominated for his role here. I knew nothing about the true story this was based on though, and now after watching the movie, I’m not sure I know a whole lot more? I think there needed to be more of a “So what?” answered here to give this a bit more purpose.
-E
I will preface that I had a very unique viewing experience that will require a re-watch due to me being distracted, but I did really enjoy the movie. I felt like Safdie does such a good job of getting the best out of actors that aren’t deemed as ‘real actors.’ I thought The Rock did a fantastic job as the main actor and would love to see him in more roles like this. Along with him, the vibe that Safdie gives is very much catered to viewers like me. I really enjoyed the film, but my biggest issue comes with the true story nature of the film. I really just don’t think he is interesting enough for a full length movie like this. Overall, a great watch and I really hope The Rock gets a nomination.
-J
