Online Reporter
Munashe Tombo
CINEMA lovers, brace yourselves. Two of the most talked-about films of the season have arrived — The Smashing Machine, starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and Ballad of a Small Player, led by the enigmatic Colin Farrell. Both promise transformative performances, but do they deliver?
The Smashing Machine: Johnson’s boldest role yet
Dwayne Johnson, long known for his action-packed roles and magnetic screen presence, takes a dramatic leap in The Smashing Machine. Directed by Benny Safdie, the film is a gritty biopic of MMA legend Mark Kerr, whose career was plagued by addiction and personal demons.
Johnson’s portrayal of Kerr is raw and revelatory. He strips away his usual bravado to reveal a man broken by fame, pain, and the brutal demands of his sport. Critics have hailed the performance as
“Oscar-worthy”, with Johnson capturing both the physicality and emotional vulnerability of Kerr. Emily Blunt, as Kerr’s partner Dawn Staples, adds further emotional depth with a grounded and empathetic performance.
Safdie’s direction is unconventional — fight scenes are filmed from outside the ring, lending a documentary-like realism. The cinematography is gritty, and the jazz-infused score adds to the film’s chaotic, immersive tone.
However, not all feedback has been glowing. Some critics argue the film’s pacing is uneven and that it leans too heavily on the 2002 documentary it’s based on. Others feel it lacks the emotional resonance of genre-defining classics like Raging Bull.
Still, The Smashing Machine marks a turning point for Johnson. It’s a bold, career-defining performance that proves he’s more than just a blockbuster star.
Ballad of a Small Player: a stylish gamble
In Ballad of a Small Player, Colin Farrell stars as Lord Doyle, a disgraced British gambler hiding out in Macau. Directed by Edward Berger, the film is a psychological thriller steeped in noir aesthetics and existential dread.
Farrell delivers a magnetic performance, blending charm, desperation, and self-loathing. His portrayal of Doyle is the film’s strongest asset — a man spiralling into ruin while clinging to illusions of grandeur.
Tilda Swinton and Fala Chen offer strong support, though their characters lack the depth to fully resonate.
Visually, the film is stunning. Berger paints Macau in neon hues, evoking the dreamlike style of Wong Kar-wai. The cinematography is lush, and the haunting score enhances the film’s moody atmosphere.
Yet, beneath the surface, the narrative falters. The plot is muddled, the pacing uneven, and the tonal shifts jarring. Attempts to blend noir, psychological drama, and supernatural elements result in a film that feels overambitious and underdeveloped.
While Farrell’s performance is compelling, the film ultimately feels like a missed opportunity — a gamble that doesn’t quite pay off.
Final verdict
The Smashing Machine is a gripping, emotionally charged drama that redefines Dwayne Johnson’s acting range. Ballad of a Small Player, though visually arresting, struggles to find its footing. For those seeking substance and soul, Johnson’s film is the clear winner.
l Munashe Tombo is the Director of Video Ezy Entertainment, a local E-entertainment company, that hosts pro-gaming, movie and video game reviews He can be contacted on [email protected]
