Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is proving once again that he doesn’t take shortcuts — especially when it comes to transforming for a role.
In a new Instagram post, the wrestling icon-turned-actor shared a behind-the-scenes time-lapse video of his intense transformation into MMA legend Mark Kerr for the film The Smashing Machine. The clip shows Johnson sitting through a grueling four-hour process each morning, applying extensive prosthetics and makeup to become Kerr. He explained the daily ritual in the caption:
“Transformation into The Smashing Machine. 4 hours in the make up chair, every morning. 22 prosthetics (eyes, face, forehead, scars, cauliflower ears, wig).”
But for The Rock, the transformation wasn’t just skin deep. He made it clear this physical change helped him mentally step into Kerr’s complicated life.
“By the time I got to set, I felt I was already in Mark Kerr’s skin. How he walked, talked, and how he violently, yet tenderly navigated life and dealt with his demons.”
He also took a moment to express his gratitude for the real-life man behind the story:
“I’m forever grateful to Mark for living a life, so we could all feel it.”
Johnson didn’t do it alone. He credited his team of special effects experts, including Kazuhiro Tsuji, Brooklyn Allen, Glen Griffin, Spring Kun, and Nikki Solow — all responsible for the jaw-dropping transformation that’s already earning Oscar buzz.
The Smashing Machine tells the story of Mark Kerr’s rise in the MMA world, along with his personal battles with addiction and relationships. Though the film faced a rocky opening at the box office, critics have praised Johnson’s performance as one of the most powerful of his career.
Would you sit through 4 hours of prosthetics to pull off a role like this? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
