From Jungle Cruise to MMA Biopic, the Stars Share a Secret Language of Friendship and Trust On and Off Screen
Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt’s bond goes beyond the silver screen. The pair reunited in The Smashing Machine, which premieres at the Toronto International Film Festival on Monday, Sept. 8, and shared how their fast friendship blossomed during previous collaborations.
During an “In Conversation With…” panel at TIFF, the actors reflected on their time working together on 2021’s Jungle Cruise and their seamless off-camera connection. Emily Blunt described the friendship as “an immediate secret language,” adding, “We just talked and shared our souls. And I was just really taken by, I guess, how different he was from what I had imagined.”
Blunt praised Johnson’s gentle, contemplative nature, noting, “He was so lovely to be around, funny and quick, all these qualities.” Johnson returned the admiration, saying, “I also want to give Emily her flowers too. She is one of the greatest actors of our time — of all time. And also one of my best friends.”
Their friendship, built on mutual trust and love, allowed them to explore vulnerability in The Smashing Machine. Johnson explained, “In order to go to the place we were going to go, you have to have love, and then you have to have trust. And the love and the trust then allow for vulnerability. We could not have done that without this love and trust and vulnerability that we have.”
The Smashing Machine chronicles the life and career of MMA and UFC fighter Mark Kerr, played by Johnson, following his pioneering achievements in mixed martial arts as well as his struggles with painkiller addiction. Blunt portrays Kerr’s ex-wife Dawn, giving audiences a deep and personal glimpse into their relationship.
The actors’ performances captivated viewers at the Venice International Film Festival premiere on Sept. 1, earning a 15-minute standing ovation, with Johnson visibly moved by the response.
Directed and written by Benny Safdie, known for Good Time and Uncut Gems, The Smashing Machine marks his first solo directorial project. Johnson and Safdie will reunite for another upcoming project, Lizard Music.
The Smashing Machine hits theaters on Oct. 3, promising both a powerful cinematic experience and a testament to the remarkable friendship between its stars.
