Dwayne Johnson Emotionally Discusses Potential On-Screen Reunion with Emily Blunt in MMA Drаmа “The Smashing Machine”. Dwayne Johnson became emotional while discussing the possibility of reuniting with Emily Blunt on screen for Benny Safdie’s upcoming mixed martial arts drаmа, “The Smashing Machine.” In an interview with Variety’s Marc Malkin at the Oscars, Johnson expressed his excitement about Blunt potentially joining the cast of Safdie’s directorial debut, which is a biopic about MMA and UFC champion Mark Kerr. Blunt is being considered for the role of Dawn Staples, Kerr’s wife.
The film would mark a reunion for Johnson and Blunt, who previously starred together in Disney’s 2021 film “Jungle Cruise,” an action-comedy centered around a charismatic riverboat captain (Johnson) and a determined explorer (Blunt) on a quest for a mystical tree with healing powers. Johnson mentioned that “The Smashing Machine” would be different from their previous collaboration.
Johnson spoke highly of Blunt, describing her as one of his best friends and one of the greatest actresses in the industry. He expressed his happiness for her Academy Award nomination for best supporting actress in Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer,” referring to her fans as the “Oppenhomies.”
The conversation also touched upon the potential for a sequel to “Jungle Cruise.” While Johnson expressed interest in reprising his role, he stated that it may happen down the line and that there have been limited updates about the project since its announcement approximately one month after the film’s release in 2021.
Overall, Johnson conveyed his enthusiasm for working with Blunt again in “The Smashing Machine” and expressed his admiration for her talent and success.