6 Reasons Why Dwayne Johnson’s ‘The Smashing Machine’ Was Knocked Out at the Box Office

Paramount+ has announced a straight-to-series order for the legal thriller 'Discretion,' starring Nicole Kidman and Elle Fanning. This exciting project, based on Chandler Baker's short story, promises to bring a fresh narrative to the legal drama genre. With A24 producing, fans can expect high-quality storytelling and performances. This move not only highlights Paramount+'s commitment to original content but also showcases the star power of Kidman and Fanning, making it a highly anticipated addition to the streaming platform.

Taylor Swift's concert film, 'Taylor Swift: The Official Release of a Showgirl,' has made a remarkable $34 million at the box office, showcasing her immense popularity and the growing trend of concert films. This success is particularly notable as it stands out in the industry, especially when compared to Dwayne Johnson's latest film, 'The Smashing Machine,' which opened to a disappointing $5.9 million. This contrast highlights the unique appeal of Swift's brand and the potential for concert films to draw significant audiences.

Dwayne Johnson's latest film, 'The Smashing Machine,' is inspired by the true story of Mark Kerr, a former MMA fighter. This film is significant as it showcases Johnson's ability to connect with deeply personal narratives, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of real-life athletes. It not only entertains but also sheds light on the challenges faced by those in the fighting world, making it a compelling watch for fans and newcomers alike.

Taylor Swift's latest film, 'The Official Release Party of a Showgirl,' has made a remarkable debut at the box office, raking in $33 million over the weekend. This success highlights her ability to captivate audiences not just in concert but also on the big screen. In contrast, Dwayne Johnson's film 'Smashing Machine' struggled, earning only $6 million. Swift's triumph is significant as it showcases her expanding influence in the entertainment industry, proving that her star power translates well beyond music.

Benny Safdie is excited about his upcoming collaboration with Dwayne Johnson on the film 'Lizard Music,' which he aims to create for his children. This project reflects Safdie's desire to evoke meaningful emotions in his kids through storytelling. The partnership, revealed earlier this month, showcases the blend of creativity and family values, making it a noteworthy addition to both their careers.

Dwayne Johnson's transformation into MMA legend Mark Kerr for 'The Smashing Machine' showcases the incredible artistry of prosthetics. With two hours spent in the makeup chair, Johnson's realistic portrayal, including a cauliflower ear, highlights the dedication and skill involved in film-making. This not only enhances the authenticity of the character but also emphasizes the importance of visual effects in storytelling, making it a significant moment in Johnson's career.

Taylor Swift's 'The Official Release Party of a Show Girl' has made a spectacular debut at the box office, raking in $15.8 million on its opening day. This impressive figure not only highlights Swift's immense popularity but also sets the stage for a strong weekend performance. In contrast, Dwayne Johnson's 'The Smashing Machine' is struggling to meet expectations, which adds an interesting dynamic to the October box office race. This news matters because it showcases the power of celebrity influence in the film industry and the varying fortunes of different films.

Dwayne Johnson recently premiered his new biopic 'The Smashing Machine' in Los Angeles, where he emphasized that the film is more than just a fight movie; it's a life story. The film chronicles the journey of UFC legend Mark Kerr, showcasing the complexities of his life as both a lover and a fighter. Johnson believes this unique narrative will resonate with audiences, highlighting the importance of personal struggles and triumphs. This film not only brings attention to Kerr's legacy but also reflects Johnson's commitment to telling meaningful stories.

This weekend's film scene was electrified by the surprise arrival of 'Taylor Swift: The Official Release Party of a Showgirl' from AMC, which thrilled exhibitors while leaving some distributors anxious. The event coincided with a surge of indie films like 'The Smashing Machine,' 'Good Boy,' and 'Bone Lake,' alongside compelling documentaries such as 'Orwell: 2+2=5' and the much-anticipated return of Daniel Day-Lewis. This vibrant mix highlights the dynamic landscape of cinema, showcasing both mainstream and independent voices.

The documentary 'Downey Wrote That' about legendary Saturday Night Live writer Jim Downey is set to premiere on Peacock on October 17, marking a significant moment for fans of comedy. After four and a half years of anticipation, this film will delve into Downey's remarkable career, celebrating his contributions to one of the most iconic shows in television history. This release not only honors Downey's legacy but also highlights the enduring impact of SNL on comedy and pop culture.

Peacock is set to release a documentary titled 'Downey Wrote That' on October 17, focusing on the legendary 'Saturday Night Live' writer Jim Downey. This hour-long film will explore Downey's influential sketches and comedic voice, celebrating his remarkable career as the longest-running writer in SNL history since joining in 1976. This documentary not only honors Downey's contributions to comedy but also highlights the impact of SNL on American pop culture, making it a must-watch for fans of the show and comedy enthusiasts alike.

AGI Entertainment Media & Management has made a significant move by hiring Josh Bider, a former partner at WME, as the Executive Vice President of Talent Management. This strategic appointment comes as AGI opens its new office in Los Angeles, aiming to enhance its presence in the entertainment industry. Bider's extensive experience over two decades at a leading agency positions him well to lead AGI's talent management efforts, which could lead to exciting opportunities for both the company and its clients.

As Halloween approaches, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for pop culture costumes. This year, expect to see a lot of plaid bathroom robes on the streets, but with a twist. Instead of the classic Tony Soprano look, many will channel Leonardo DiCaprio's character Bob Ferguson from the film 'One Battle After Another,' complete with a vape and rifle. This shift in costume trends reflects the evolving landscape of pop culture and highlights how films continue to inspire creativity during Halloween.

In a recent episode of 'The View,' Whoopi Goldberg humorously responded to Kristi Noem's comments about ICE monitoring the Super Bowl, particularly during Bad Bunny's halftime show. Goldberg suggested that attendees should use cocoa butter and tan to see if they would be targeted, highlighting the absurdity of Noem's threats. This exchange not only showcases Goldberg's wit but also emphasizes the ongoing discussions about immigration and security in a light-hearted manner, making it a relevant topic for many.

Jafar Panahi, the acclaimed filmmaker, may soon arrive in the U.S. after delays in his visa due to a government shutdown. His presence is eagerly anticipated at the New York Film Festival, where his Palme d’Or winning film 'It Was Just An Accident' is set to premiere. This is significant not only for Panahi, who has faced numerous challenges in his career, but also for the festival, which highlights the importance of international cinema and the voices of filmmakers from around the world.