A24 is currently making waves in the sports biopic market, and they’re doing exceptionally well. The Iron Claw had a firm grip on the box office and garnered a plethora of positive reviews from critics. Now, A24 is making a concerted effort to capitalize even further on this market.
Their latest project, The Smashing Machine, has attracted some big names. Previously, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson was associated with the project. Now, Oscar-nominated actress Emily Blunt has joined the cast, and A24 is sure to make their chemistry work.
Interestingly, A24 doesn’t have to start from scratch to build the chemistry between the actors, as the pair has already worked together in Jungle Cruise (2021), portraying the roles of Lily Houghton and Frank Wolff.
The Smashing Machine revolves around MMA legend Mark Kerr’s rise through the brutal early days of the UFC, earning him the nickname.
However, the film doesn’t shy away from depicting his battles with addiction, revealing the challenges he faced outside the octagon.
Capturing the controversy surrounding early MMA, the biopic offers a powerful glimpse into a fighter’s journey, showcasing both triumphs and struggles within and beyond the ring.
According to reports, Emily Blunt will be portraying either Mark Kerr’s ex-wife, Dawn Staples, or his current wife, Franci Alberding.