The Rock says his best friend made it possible for him to embrace raw vulnerability in his most emotional role yet.

An Unlikely Path to Vulnerability

September 2, 2025: In his latest dramatic leap, Dwayne Johnson—long celebrated for his colossal action and comedy roles—delivers a deeply personal and emotionally raw performance as MMA legend Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine. Yet for Johnson, embracing this uncharted level of vulnerability wasn’t a solo journey—it required the steady presence of his real-life confidante, Emily Blunt. Drawing from their genuine friendship, Johnson shared that the trust between them allowed him to dig deeper than ever before, enabling the emotional honesty that defines the film.

Image Credit: X: @RaminSetoodeh

A Bond That Frees the Performance

Their off-screen connection has translated into powerful on-screen chemistry. Johnson emphasized that without that friendship, “going to those places”—emotionally and creatively—might not have been possible. Blunt herself described the transformation as “spooky,” noting how effortlessly Johnson disappeared into his character, shedding his all-too-familiar “Rock” persona in favor of raw intimacy.

A Turning Point in The Rock’s Career

This role signifies a notable shift from blockbuster star to a performer unafraid to confront inner demons. Critics are already drawing comparisons to powerhouse portrayals like Mickey Rourke in The Wrestler or Brendan Fraser in The Whale, calling Johnson’s emotional intensity and nuance potentially Oscar-worthy.

Venice Premiere Sparks Emotional Ovation

Unveiled at the Venice Film Festival, The Smashing Machine received a thunderous 15-minute standing ovation—an emotional milestone that moved Johnson, Blunt, and director Benny Safdie to tears. The audience’s reaction underscores how deeply this departure resonates, highlighting both the film’s artistry and Johnson’s evolution as an actor.

Key Takeaways

Dwayne Johnson credits Emily Blunt for giving him the trust to explore raw vulnerability on screen.

The Smashing Machine marks a major career shift from blockbuster action to intense drama.

Critics see the performance as a potential awards contender.

A 15-minute ovation at Venice confirmed the film’s emotional power.