Dwayne Johnson Reacts to 'The Smashing Machine' Underperforming at the Box Office

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On Tuesday, Dwayne Johnson took to Instagram, where he broke his silence on The Smashing Machine’s box office underperformance. Despite a healthy critical consensus and some rave reviews, Benny Safdie’s MMA drama failed to ignite with audiences and posted a career-low opening for Johnson, netting just $6 million domestically. Internationally, the film opened to a disastrous $110,000 despite a heavy publicity push and prominent placement on multiplex screens.

Johnson Owned the Movie's Underperformance

“From deep in my grateful bones, thank you to everyone who has watched The Smashing Machine,” Johnson began his post. “In our storytelling world, you can’t control box office results—but what I realized you can control is your performance, and your commitment to completely disappear and go elsewhere. And I will always run to that opportunity. It was my honor to transform in this role for my director Benny Safdie. Thank you brother for believing in me. Truth is this film has changed my life. With deep gratitude, respect, and radical empathy, dj.”

His Fans Supported Him With Positive Affirmations

Johnson’s fans came out to support the star, offering sympathy and kind words amidst his lower-than-expected results. UFC star Mark Coleman commented a thumbs-up and heart emoji, while Mario Lopez told Johnson he “KILLED IT, my man.” “Sometimes, the real magic happens when you ditch the gloss and just let the story shine,” another fan wrote. “Powerful.” Another added: “Only YOU could disappear into a role this deeply. Beyond box office, it’s the heart you put into the performance that changes lives.” Even the official IMAX Instagram page got in on the action, telling Johnson he gave “an absolutely stunning performance."

The Smashing Machine was heralded as a career-changing performance for Johnson, with many believing prior to the film’s opening that the star would secure his first Academy Award nomination for playing Mark Kerr. However, it remains to be seen if the movie can overcome its disappointing box office to dominate awards season.