Mixed martial arts (MMA) has come a long way from its controversial beginnings when it faced opposition from figures like U.S. Sen. John McCain and criticisms of being barbaric. Mark Kerr, known as the “Smashing Machine,” entered the scene as a dominant force in the octagon, showcasing a dichotomy between his fierce competitiveness in the ring and his gentle demeanor outside of it.
The film “The Smashing Machine” delves into Kerr’s career, depicting his rise to glory, followed by a downward spiral marked by addiction and personal struggles. The narrative highlights Kerr’s unwavering determination in the face of challenges, portraying the evolution of MMA from its early days with minimal rules to its current status as a regulated industry.
Despite its potential, the film fails to provide a cohesive storyline, meandering through Kerr’s life events without a clear narrative arc. While it showcases Johnson’s compelling performance as Kerr, the film lacks depth in character exploration and fails to offer unique insights into Kerr’s journey or the sport itself.
Ultimately, “The Smashing Machine” presents a lackluster portrayal of Kerr’s life and career, missing the opportunity to delve deeper into his character. Although Johnson delivers a nuanced performance, the film falls short due to its disjointed storytelling and lack of meaningful substance.