Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has opened up about a painful childhood memory while celebrating the early success of his upcoming film, The Smashing Machine. The 53-year-old actor received a 15-minute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival for his portrayal of MMA fighter Mark Kerr.
Following the premiere, Johnson reflected on a life-changing moment from his youth, recalling the day his family faced eviction. “I would say, ‘It’s gonna be alright. It’s gonna be okay,’” Johnson remembered. “We came home to our little efficiency apartment. There was a notice there that says you’re—you gotta—the eviction notice.
You have five days to get out. If not, the cops are gonna come escort you out. “My mom was just there crying, and so that left an indelible mark, and I stuffed it deep down in here,” he said, motioning to his chest. “So, to go from that to the career that I’ve been lucky enough to have, blessed with people like Emily, who I have this love, incredible support, and bond and friendship… To go from that to today… like, that other kind of conversation, is…”
The actor grew visibly emotional while recalling his family’s struggles, saying the contrast between his past and present continues to humble him. Speaking later about the reaction to the film, Johnson said, “I think of what the moment represented for all of us, told ExtraTV.
We went into this and made this film for ourselves and to discover things about ourselves and without an attachment to an outcome, a reception, a reaction, you’d never know.” The Smashing Machine explores the story of Mark Kerr, a legendary mixed martial artist whose career was marked by both triumphs and personal challenges.
Directed by Benny Safdie, the drama also stars Emily Blunt and is scheduled for release on Friday, October 3. For Johnson, the role is a departure from his blockbuster action persona, giving him the chance to deliver a performance already being praised as one of the most powerful of his career.
Critics at Venice noted his ability to capture Kerr’s intensity while also bringing vulnerability to the screen. The emotional connection to his own past appeared to shape how Johnson approached the project. By drawing from his early hardships, including the pain of eviction and the resilience that followed, he seemed to channel personal truth into his portrayal of Kerr.
As he walked away from the festival ovation, Johnson said the journey of The Smashing Machine was not about chasing accolades but about self-discovery, authenticity, and telling a story that resonates beyond the ring.