Actor Dwayne Johnson, popularly known as The Rock, surprised fans at the Venice Film Festival with a noticeably leaner physique.
The Jumanji star appeared to have shed weight, departing from his signature muscular build to embody his latest role.
Johnson revealed that the transformation was intentional, aimed at authentically portraying former MMA fighter Mark Kerr in the upcoming A24 biographical drama The Smashing Machine.
The film explores Kerr’s rise in the sport, his struggles with substance abuse, and his battles outside the ring.
“I’ve been scared to go deep and intense and raw until now, until I had this opportunity,” Johnson said, according to Daily Mail.
“This is your lane and this is what you do and this is what Hollywood wants you to do. But I wanted to live my dreams now and put all this stuff I’ve experienced in a place where it belongs.”
The actor added that he hopes the film will elevate his career to new heights and even serve as a path toward an Oscar.
Emily Blunt, who stars alongside Johnson as Kerr’s girlfriend Dawn Staples, praised Kerr as “a glorious contradiction,” describing his gentle nature despite his brutal profession.
When asked if Johnson shared the same demeanor, Blunt quipped: “He’s like pudding underneath.”
Johnson laughed, adding, “That’s my nickname on weekends—pudding.”
The real Mark Kerr was present in the audience and received a standing ovation after Johnson introduced him.
“It’s not about the wins or the losses,” Johnson reflected, “it’s also a film about what happens when winning becomes the enemy.”
Kerr, a decorated athlete, is a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion and four-time ADCC World Submission Champion.
Blunt revealed she grew close to Kerr’s partner, Dawn Staples, while preparing for the role, crediting her for generously sharing personal insights into their life.