Dwayne Johnson has received his first-ever Golden Globe nomination for his role in the film “The Smashing Machine.” This marks a significant milestone in his career, which spans over 60 films. Johnson portrays Mark Kerr, a former amateur wrestler and MMA fighter, in a story directed by Benny Safdie.
Dwayne Johnson’s Golden Globe Nomination
Johnson’s nomination is for Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama. He competes against notable actors such as:
- Joel Edgerton in “Train Dreams”
- Oscar Isaac in “Frankenstein”
- Michael B. Jordan in “Sinners”
- Wagner Moura in “The Secret Agent”
- Jeremy Allen White in “Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere”
In a remarkable twist, Johnson’s co-star, Emily Blunt, also received a nomination for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role.
The Importance of Recognition
For Johnson, this nomination represents more than just a career achievement. He emphasized its importance in addressing battles with addiction and personal demons. He stated, “Mark Kerr had it all and lost everything, and has since become sober.” The film’s narrative aims to honor those who struggle with similar challenges.
Behind the Scenes of “The Smashing Machine”
The journey to bring “The Smashing Machine” to life has been a lengthy process, beginning over seven years ago when Johnson first met Benny Safdie. This film deeply resonates with Johnson, who lost 15 friends in the wrestling and fighting community to addiction. He views the nomination as a tribute to their memory.
To embody Mark Kerr, Johnson underwent a dramatic physical transformation, gaining 32 pounds. He acknowledged that the role required not only physicality but also emotional depth. The film explores the complexities of relationships and personal struggles in the face of adversity.
Emotional and Physical Transformation
Johnson explained the challenges faced while preparing for this demanding role. He noted the stark differences between pro wrestling and MMA, which required him to adapt significantly. His transformation involved rigorous training and the use of prosthetics to authentically depict Kerr’s physical characteristics.
Overall, “The Smashing Machine” seeks to highlight the redemptive power of overcoming personal battles while providing an in-depth understanding of the impact of those struggles on relationships.
The Golden Globe nominations showcase the talent and hard work involved in creating compelling narratives. Johnson’s recognition is a credit to his dedication to both acting and storytelling.
