Is Dwayne Johnson Bound for Oscar Glory?

Dwayne Johnson is creating waves at the Venice Film Festival, and the buzz is palpable. His heartfelt portrayal of troubled wrestler Mark Kerr in the upcoming film "The Smashing Machine" has left audiences in awe—could this role send him straight to the Oscars?

An Emotional Night Unfolds

During the film's premiere, the audience erupted into a staggering 15-minute standing ovation, making it one of the highlights of this year’s festival. Johnson, visibly moved, broke down uncontrollably as tears streamed down his face.

Known for his charismatic performances as WWE’s The Rock and roles in blockbuster hits like "Black Adam" and "Baywatch," Johnson is stepping into deeper emotional territory with this film. Scheduled for release by A24 in November, it showcases him as a fighter grappling with personal demons.

Behind the Scenes: Joy and Tears

Alongside Johnson is Emily Blunt, who plays Kerr’s girlfriend, Dawn Staples. Director Benny Safdie embraced both stars during the standing ovation, joining them in a moment of shared joy and tears as the credits rolled.

The Most Emotional Premiere Since Brendan Fraser’s Breakthrough

The premiere has been compared to Brendan Fraser’s unforgettable emotional exit four years ago after screening "The Whale," igniting his Oscar run. The night was lively, with fans shouting Johnson's iconic wrestling catchphrase, sparking laughter among the crowd and him.

Dwayne embraced the festival atmosphere, charming fans along the glamorous red carpet, signing autographs, and taking selfies. This year’s Venice Film Festival is pulsating with star power, hosting the likes of George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and Emma Stone—an official launchpad for awards season.

A Transformative Performance Awaits

In "The Smashing Machine," Johnson is nearly unrecognizable, thanks to extensive prosthetics that transform him into the muscular two-time UFC Heavyweight champion. He revealed to Variety that he was drawn to the film because Benny Safdie challenges conventional storytelling, crafting raw, real characters that resonate.

A New Chapter for Johnson and Safdie

"I’m at a point in my career where I want to push myself in ways I haven’t before,” Johnson shared, eager to create films that delve into human experience and struggle. "The Smashing Machine" marks Benny Safdie’s solo directorial debut, following his success with indie hits like "Good Time" and "Uncut Gems." This project reunites Safdie with Blunt, who previously starred alongside him in Christopher Nolan’s "Oppenheimer," showcasing another layer to their collaborative talents.