STARZPLAY has announced the exclusive MENA premiere of Smashing Machine, a new feature film starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Emily Blunt, set to debut on December 1 to coincide with the UAE’s 54th National Day weekend. The announcement was made live in Abu Dhabi during the broadcast of UFC 321 at Etihad Arena, underscoring the film’s connection to the world of combat sports.
The Smashing Machine
Based on the true story of MMA fighter Mark Kerr, Smashing Machine chronicles the rise and fall of one of the sport’s early icons. At the height of his success in the UFC, Kerr battles addiction, physical exhaustion, and emotional turmoil as fame begins to take a personal toll. Emily Blunt co-stars as Dawn Staples, Kerr’s girlfriend, whose relationship with him fractures under the strain of his public and private struggles.
Directed by Benny Safdie, known for his unflinching portrayals of flawed characters in Uncut Gems and Good Time, the film examines the tension between triumph and self-destruction. Johnson takes on one of his most dramatic and stripped-down roles yet, departing from his usual action persona to deliver what early commentary describes as an intensely human performance.
The story offers a candid look at the psychological cost of athletic glory — a departure from typical sports biopics. Safdie’s direction emphasizes both the physical brutality of the fight world and the quieter, internal battles that accompany fame.
For STARZPLAY, the release marks a significant addition to its growing lineup of high-profile film premieres in the region. Launching Smashing Machine over the UAE National Day weekend is a strategic move, positioning the platform as a destination for major releases that resonate with local audiences while maintaining global appeal.
Smashing Machine will be available exclusively on STARZPLAY starting December 1 across the Middle East and North Africa.
