This week on The Commentary Booth, Jamie Apps and That Movie Guy Harry Argyle step into the cage to break down A24’s hard-hitting new biopic The Smashing Machine, directed by Benny Safdie and starring Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, and Ryan Bader.

This episode delivers a deep dive into Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's transformative performance as UFC and Pride legend Mark Kerr, exploring the brutal highs of his fighting career and the devastating lows of his personal struggles with addiction.

We dissect the film's raw power, from Emily Blunt's Oscar-worthy supporting role to the visceral fight choreography that captures the lawless early days of MMA. Is this the role that redefines The Rock's career? How does it stack up against other A24 sports classics like The Iron Claw and Uncut Gems? And does it truly capture the infamous brutality of the real "Smashing Machine"?

Highlights Breakdown:

- The magic of fighting and the euphoria of winning

- How addiction, arrogance, and painkillers led to Kerr’s devastating losses

- Dwayne Johnson’s career-defining dramatic turn

- The Pride Grand Prix prize vs today’s UFC payouts

- Why A24’s grounded realism makes this one of the most powerful sports dramas in years

Tune in for a knockout conversation filled with expert analysis, behind-the-scenes trivia, and a passionate look at one of the year's most anticipated films.

This week’s episode is brought to you by

Australian Wrestling Cards

Check out more great content from Pario Magazine on our website.

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