Dwayne Johnson tears up after 15-minute ovation at Venice Festival
What's the story
Dwayne Johnson's latest film, The Smashing Machine, received a rousing response at the Venice International Film Festival. The movie, which features Johnson as 1990s fighter Mark Kerr, was honored with a 15-minute standing ovation. An emotional Johnson was seen wiping away tears as co-star Emily Blunt comforted him during this moment of triumph.
Award potential
Speculation about 'The Smashing Machine' being Oscar contender
The standing ovation has sparked speculation that The Smashing Machine could be a strong contender in the upcoming awards season, especially the Oscars. The film also includes Blunt as Dawn Staples, with Bas Rutten, Ryan Bader, and Oleksandr Usyk in supporting roles. It will hit theaters on October 3.
Twitter Post
See the video of Johnson getting emotional here
Dwayne Johnson gets misty-eyed as his new movie "The Smashing Machine" gets a 15 minute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival pic.twitter.com/daOKJSDCjM
— non aesthetic things (@PicturesFoIder) September 2, 2025
Role preparation
More on the film and Johnson's preparation for it
For his role in The Smashing Machine, Johnson underwent a dramatic transformation. In an interview with Variety, he said, "I'm at a point in my career where I want to push myself in ways that I've not pushed myself in the past." "I want to make films that matter, that explore humanity and explore struggle [and] pain." The film marks Benny Safdie's solo directorial debut.