Dwayne Johnson Breaks Down in Tears After 15-Minute Ovation for The Smashing Machine at Venice Film Festival

Dwayne Johnson, better known to millions as The Rock, was overcome with emotion at the Venice Film Festival when his new film The Smashing Machine earned an astounding 15-minute standing ovation.

Portraying 1990s MMA fighter Mark Kerr, Johnson shed his usual blockbuster image to deliver one of the most raw and transformative performances of his career. Nearly unrecognizable under prosthetics, his depiction of Kerr’s struggles drew tears not only from himself but from the audience as well.

He was joined at the premiere by co-star Emily Blunt and director Benny Safdie, both of whom were visibly moved by the overwhelming reception. The real Mark Kerr was also present, making the moment even more poignant as he witnessed the audience’s admiration.

Fans in attendance greeted Johnson with his iconic wrestling catchphrase — “Can you smell what The Rock is cooking?!” — adding an electric touch of nostalgia to the night.

According to early reviews from international outlets, Johnson’s performance is being hailed as one of the most powerful of his career. “This is the kind of storytelling that’s raw and real,” Johnson told Variety, reflecting on stepping outside his action-star persona.

Emily Blunt’s portrayal of Dawn Staples, Kerr’s girlfriend, added further emotional depth to the narrative. With A24 set to release the film in November, industry insiders are already hinting at Oscar potential for Johnson, drawing comparisons to Brendan Fraser’s acclaimed return in The Whale (2021).

As the Venice Film Festival continues, The Smashing Machine is shaping up to be a defining film for Johnson — one that could permanently shift his career from mainstream action hero to serious awards contender.