Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Gets 15-Minute Standing Ovation for The Smashing Machine at Venice Film Festival
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson Breaks Through Emotional Walls with 15-Minute Standing Ovation for The Smashing Machine
Venice, September 2, 2025 – Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson delivered one of the most emotionally charged moments of this year’s Venice Film Festival during the premiere of his new film The Smashing Machine, earning a staggering 15-minute standing ovation — one of the longest received at the festival this year. The moment left Johnson visibly moved, even shedding tears alongside co-star Emily Blunt and director Benny Safdie.
A Deeply Emotional Response
Premiering at the prestigious festival, the biographical drama The Smashing Machine portrays the turbulent life of MMA fighter Mark Kerr, and spotlights Johnson’s most transformative role yet. Audiences rewarded his dedication with prolonged applause, and many at the premiere — including Kerr himself — were overcome with emotion.
The Rock was seen in tears whilst receiving a 15 minute standing ovation for his new movie ‘The Smashing Machine.’
— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) September 1, 2025
Breaking Out of the Box-Office Mold
During a press conference, Johnson candidly reflected on his career choices and Hollywood’s tendency to mold actors into a single lane. “I just had this burning desire… ‘What if there is more and what if I can?’” he shared. He credited Safdie and Blunt with helping him confront deeper, more unfiltered aspects of his performance.
Critics Are Listening
Variety lauded Johnson’s work as “a revelation,” while early reviews showcase an overwhelmingly positive response — currently boasting an 89% Rotten Tomatoes score and “strong early awards buzz.”
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This role, Johnson shared, allowed him to question whether he was truly living his dream or merely playing roles crafted for him: “Sometimes it takes people who you love and respect… to say that you can.”
What’s Next?
Set for theatrical release on October 3, The Smashing Machine, produced by A24, is already drawing favorable comparisons to Antonie Fuqua’s The Whale — a film that propelled Brendan Fraser to Oscar gold.
| Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Film | The Smashing Machine |
| Role | Dwayne Johnson as MMA legend Mark Kerr |
| Premiere Reaction | 15-minute standing ovation |
| Emotional Impact | Johnson, Blunt, Safdie, and Kerr brought to tears |
| Critical Response | Praise, Oscar buzz, “a revelation” performance |
| Release Date | October 3 (theatrical release) |
| Significance | Johnson’s shift toward deeper, more nuanced roles |
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