Hollywood heavyweight Dwayne Johnson is set to challenge everything we thought we knew about his acting chops with his latest film, “The Smashing Machine”. In a dramatic departure from his usual action-packed roles, Johnson transforms into UFC fighter Mark Kerr, delivering a performance that’s already generating serious Oscar buzz.

Directed by Benny Safdie, known for “Uncut Gems,” the film explores the intense life of Kerr, a two-time UFC heavyweight tournament champion who battled significant personal struggles, including addiction to painkillers and opioids. Johnson’s portrayal promises a raw, unfiltered look into the complex world of professional fighting and personal resilience.

Venice Film Festival’s artistic director Alberto Barbera has already praised Johnson’s performance as “absolutely amazing,” suggesting the actor might be on track for his first potential Academy Award nomination. Alongside Emily Blunt, who plays Kerr’s wife, Johnson seems poised to deliver a nuanced, dramatic performance that could redefine his Hollywood persona.

For those familiar with Johnson’s wrestling background, this role feels like a profound full-circle moment. As a third-generation wrestler who won eight WWE championships before becoming a global film star, Johnson understands the physical and emotional demands of combat sports intimately.

Safdie’s vision for the film goes beyond mere biographical storytelling. In his director’s statement, he emphasized wanting to create a deeply empathetic portrayal that captures the essence of Kerr and his wife’s experiences. “We wanted to empathize with these characters in a way that felt like our own feelings,” Safdie explained.

“The Smashing Machine” will hit North American theaters on October 3rd, offering audiences a chance to witness what could be a transformative performance from Johnson. The film’s premiere at Venice, a festival known for launching Oscar-winning performances, only heightens anticipation for this potentially career-defining role.

As the entertainment world watches closely, one thing is clear: Dwayne Johnson is ready to show he’s more than just an action hero – he’s a serious dramatic actor with profound depth and range.