The Smashing Machine (MA) – 123 minutes

Unless you follow mixed martial arts, you have probably never heard of fighters Mark Kerr and Mark Coleman.

They were two of the pioneers of the sport and what unfolds in this movie is based on the realities of the years 1997 to 2000.

That is when Mark Kerr burst onto the scene and looked like being the next big thing.

He was supported by his good mate, trainer, manager and a fellow exponent of the craft a couple of years older than him, Mark Coleman.

Even though Kerr was consumed by the sport, he seemed like a gentle giant and had a good, caring relationship with his girlfriend Dawn Staples.

But when he started injecting pain killers, he became a different man – disconnected from Staples, distant and cold.

She tried to support him and say the right things, but he regarded her as too pushy and needy. As a result, he lashed out.

Once he cleaned up his act, all seemed back on track for a major tournament in Japan where the world champion would be crowned.

Coleman was also in with a chance.

Then Kerr and Staples had a major blow up.

Written, directed and edited by Bennie Safdie (Uncut Gems), The Smashing Machine is an insight into what dedication and selfishness if often takes to get to the top.

More than anything else though, this is a warts and all story about the toll it can take.

The main focus of attention is on Kerr, a role filled by an all but unrecognisable Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.

His is a measured, nuanced performance, arguably the finest of his career.

Matching him pound for pound is Emily Blunt as girlfriend Staples. Such a fine actor, she brings authenticity to the role, displaying support, frustration and vulnerability.

Ryan Bader is stoic as family man, fighter and friend, Coleman.

I know it is cliched to say this, but it is tough in the clinches.

Marceo Bishop’s close up cinematography has you all but feeling every punch, kick and knee land, and I tell you, it ain’t pretty.

Production design is impressive in reflecting the era.

A potent soundtrack by Nala Sinephro underpins the action.

I felt the pacing of the film could readily have been picked up and the overall running time tightened as a result.

Nevertheless, with a revelatory performance from The Rock, The Smashing Machine has impact.

Rated MA, it scores a 7½ out of 10.