With grit and heart to spare, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson surprises and impresses in a stirring triumph-over-tragedy sports drama. Yes, Benny Safdie’s The Smashing Machine feels almost documentary-like in its authenticity, with the camera often pressed uncomfortably (yet purposefully) close, placing you right alongside the subjects. The recreation of events is also striking—especially the Japan fight sequences. It all feels ripped from actual footage. Plus - the late ’90s atmosphere is nailed through plenty of nuanced details and a fitting retro soundtrack. Speaking of nuance, Johnson brings the same degree of detail to his performance. You see, while Mark Kerr looks larger-than-life, he’s also soft-spoken and contemplative. And by perfectly embodying not only his look, but all his mannerisms, ‘The Rock’ delivers a transformative (and dare I say) awards-worthy portrayal. As for supporting characters, Emily Blunt shines as Kerr’s girlfriend, while Ryan Bader offers a strong turn as fellow fighter Mark Coleman - whose own real-life victories nearly steal the show. Now, it should be noted that although this is a "sports drama," the story dodges the usual clichés. This is because Kerr’s true journey simply doesn’t always fit them. Admittedly, that leaves the narrative occasionally thin and the pacing sluggish – though the fight sequences can definitely get intense. Still, while not packed with nonstop action, its brutality, conviction, and Johnson’s knockout performance leave one heck of a lasting mark.