Even Dwayne Johnson could not save The Smashing Machine at the box office, yet it drifts to streaming for redemption. Mark Kerr’s grueling UFC years, opioid battles, and troubled relationship with Dawn did receive critical acclaim but failed to draw a theatrical audience. It may finally find the audience it deserved.

The Smashing Machine will premiere on HBO Max starting January 23, offering viewers a chance to watch Dwayne Johnson’s latest film after its underwhelming box office performance. Despite costing $40 million, the movie grossed only $21 million globally, failing to break even.

The film, an A24-produced Oscar-hopeful biopic, chronicles Mark Kerr’s career during the intense years between 1997 and 2000, highlighting his battles in the UFC and Japan’s Pride Fighting Championships. It also explores his opioid addiction and strained relationship with Dawn.

Critics praised the film, granting it a perfect 100% score at several summer festivals, though Rotten Tomatoes later adjusted the rating to 71%. Audience reception remained mixed, with many fans citing slow pacing and limited action as disappointments, reflecting in its box office returns.

As the movie heads to streaming, it may find a wider audience eager to explore Dwayne Johnson’s dramatic turn. HBO Max provides an opportunity for viewers who missed the theatrical release to engage with Kerr’s struggles and Johnson’s acclaimed performance.

Dwayne Johnson may not have switched genres for naught as the film does have a second chance for success, but this time in the streaming world.

Why the Dwayne Johnson film has a second chance for success

The Smashing Machine may find redemption on HBO Max, where it is set to stream in January 2026. Streaming platforms target niche audiences directly, allowing MMA enthusiasts and fans of Dwayne Johnson’s serious work to discover the film without theatrical pressure.

Analysts note that many viewers prefer watching mid-budget, dramatic films at home, treating them as curiosity items rather than paying for a full-ticket experience. The film’s intense, character-driven narrative makes it more suitable for the relaxed streaming environment.

Streaming reduces the perceived cost of failure. Subscribers are more willing to watch intense dramas included in their subscription. Similar cases include The Fall Guy, which broke Peacock records, Madame Web, a Netflix hit, and Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, successful online despite poor box office returns. These precedents suggest that The Smashing Machine may finally find its audience.

Are you excited to watchThe Smashing Machine on HBO Max? Let us know in the comments!

Written by

Iffat Siddiqui

Edited by

Aliza Siddiqui