From Wrestling legend to Oscar nominee? Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is reportedly a serious contender for an Oscar.
The Oscar talk comes after Johnson received a 15-minute standing ovation at the Venice International Film Festival for his role in the movie, “The Smashing Machine.”
His performance sparked the conversation of the wrestler-turned-actor potentially being considered for an Oscar. In the film, Johnson plays the role of Mark Kerr, a former amateur wrestler and MMA fighter, which is a career pivot from the roles he normally plays.
Johnson’s performance is being compared to Mickey Rourke’s portrayal of Darren Aronofsky in the 2008 film “The Wrestler.” As Variety reports, “both films center on fighters grappling with physical deterioration and personal demons.”
To get ready for the film, Johnson worked with two-time Oscar winner Kazu Hiro (“Darkest Hour” and Bombshell”). Reports added that “Johnson undergoes a physical transformation that erases any thought of a WWE star in costume.”
In the film, Johnson is joined by Emily Blunt, who plays the role of Kerr’s girlfriend, Dawn Staples, who is battling her own addiction while trying to support Kerr on his journey. Johnson spoke about his co-star and said, “She’s one of my greatest inspirations.” This isn’t the first time that the two of them worked together. They previously starred in Disney’s “Jungle Cruise.”
If he is considered for an Oscar, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson may be nominated in the Best Actor category. “The Smashing Machine” premieres in theaters on Oct. 3.
