Benny Safdie on Directing Dwayne Johnson in The Smashing Machine
Moments before receiving the Stockholm Visionary Award at the Stockholm Film Festival, director and actor Benny Safdie shared insights about his latest film The Smashing Machine and his collaboration with Dwayne Johnson.
Finding Trust and Connection
Safdie is gaining a reputation for uncovering Oscar-worthy performances in unexpected places. His newest film features Dwayne Johnson portraying real-life mixed martial arts legend Mark Kerr. This marks Safdie's first feature film written and directed without his brother Josh.
“What it comes down to is just if you get along with the person and if they trust you,”
Safdie explains, highlighting the mutual trust he established with Johnson. “And I really got along with Dwayne and he really trusted me implicitly, and I trusted him.”
A Moment in Stockholm
Dressed in a black Prada suit, which he picked up in Venice and was allowed to keep, Safdie sat comfortably in a wood-paneled meeting room in Gamla Stan. He had just arrived from a slightly delayed flight from Los Angeles but remained calm about the situation.
He is in Stockholm to screen The Smashing Machine and to receive the Stockholm Visionary Award at the film festival.
About The Smashing Machine
- The film stars Dwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr, a prominent figure in mixed martial arts.
- This project is Safdie's first intended solo directing effort without his brother.
- The movie showcases a raw, uncut perspective on the life and career of Kerr.
Author’s summary: Benny Safdie emphasizes trust and rapport with Dwayne Johnson in creating The Smashing Machine, marking a pivotal solo directing milestone celebrated at the Stockholm Film Festival.