Dwayne Johnson’s latest film, “The Smashing Machine,” faced a disappointing debut at the box office, garnering only $5.9 million in its opening weekend. This marks the lowest opening of Johnson’s career, significantly below expectations of $8 million to $15 million.
Dwayne Johnson Reflects on Box Office Performance
Despite the setback, Johnson remains optimistic. He shared his thoughts on Instagram, stating, “you can’t control box office results.” He expressed gratitude towards director Benny Safdie, who played a pivotal role in his life through this project.
About ‘The Smashing Machine’
In “The Smashing Machine,” Johnson portrays Mark Kerr, a two-time UFC heavyweight champion. The film chronicles Kerr’s tumultuous life, focusing on his highs and lows in mixed martial arts, including his struggles with substance abuse. Emily Blunt co-stars as Kerr’s wife, Dawn.
- Director: Benny Safdie
- Box Office Debut: $5.9 million
- Projected Box Office: $8 million to $15 million
- Kerr’s Career: Fought from 1997 to 2009, won four ADCC World Championships
- Open: In 3,345 theaters nationwide
A Setback for A24
This underwhelming performance is also a setback for A24, the studio behind the film, which invested approximately $50 million in production costs. Additional funds were allocated for promotional campaigns, including appearances at prestigious film festivals like Venice and Toronto.
Critical Acclaim and Oscar Contender Status
When it premiered at the Venice Film Festival, “The Smashing Machine” received critical acclaim, with Safdie winning the best director prize. Even unfavorable reviews cited Johnson’s performance as noteworthy, positioning him as a strong contender for the Best Actor category at the upcoming Oscars.
In conclusion, while “The Smashing Machine” may have struggled at the box office, the film’s artistic achievements and Johnson’s transformative performance could still leave a lasting impact on both critics and audiences alike.
