Dwayne Johnson, the wrestler-turned-movie star, received his first Golden Globe nomination this morning for his performance as troubled MMA fighter Mark Kerr in the A24 film Smashing Machine. The nomination places him in the Lead Male Actor Motion Picture Drama category, following an emotional 15 1/2-minute standing ovation the film garnered at the Venice Film Festival, which brought the actor to tears.
Johnson’s nomination arrives amid the ongoing discussions around the future of theatrical releases, particularly in light of the competitive dynamics between major studios like Netflix and Paramount over Warner Bros., which is celebrating its 102nd year. Concerns are rising that a Netflix triumph could potentially jeopardize the traditional theatrical window, threatening the survival of cinemas and transforming the film industry as we know it.
However, Johnson expressed optimism about the future of theatrical experiences. “I don’t have a fear that the theatrical experience is going away,” he asserted, highlighting his passion for the craft of filmmaking and the art of storytelling. He reminisced about the profound impact the film Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark had on him when he first watched it as a child, solidifying his desire to act.
While acknowledging the fears surrounding significant changes within the industry, Johnson maintained confidence that filmmakers will continue to create films designed for the big screen. He also noted that even as Netflix leads the charge into new territory, there are individuals within the company who value the theatrical experience.
In terms of his role as Mark Kerr in Smashing Machine, Johnson found the transformation into the character to be a significant challenge. Kerr, who has faced addiction and personal struggles—including two overdose incidents—serves as a powerful figure in Johnson’s portrayal. The actor shared a heartfelt reflection on the toll addiction takes within the wrestling community, having lost numerous friends to substance abuse.
Johnson hopes viewers of Smashing Machine will take away a message of resilience: “Fight…as long as there is breath in your body. Sometimes winning becomes the enemy, but if you hold onto faith, then everything will be OK.”
In addition to Johnson’s nomination, his co-star, Emily Blunt, also received a Golden Globe nod for her role as Kerr’s wife, marking her eighth nomination overall. Smashing Machine has already claimed the Golden Lion for Best Film and the Silver Lion for Benny Safdie’s direction at the Venice Film Festival, adding to its accolades this awards season. With both Johnson and Blunt being recognized, the film is poised to make a significant impact during the ongoing awards circuit.