Benny Safdie on directing Dwayne Johnson in The Smashing Machine

Benny Safdie on Directing Dwayne Johnson in The Smashing Machine

Just before receiving the Stockholm Visionary Award at the Stockholm Film Festival, filmmaker and actor Benny Safdie shared his thoughts on collaboration, trust, and his latest project, The Smashing Machine.

A New Creative Chapter

Safdie, known for eliciting award-worthy performances from surprising talents, directs Dwayne Johnson as real-life MMA icon Mark Kerr. This marks his first feature both 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,” says Safdie. “And I really got along with Dwayne and he really trusted me implicitly, and I trusted him.”

Collaboration and Trust

The connection between the director and Johnson shaped the film’s creative energy. Safdie describes Johnson as open and deeply committed to portraying Kerr authentically, adding that their mutual trust built the foundation for the film’s tone and process.

A Visionary Moment

Appearing in a sleek black Prada suit, Safdie jokes about acquiring it during a Venice trip, delighted that the brand never asked for it back. Sitting relaxed in a wood-paneled meeting room in Stockholm’s Gamla Stan, he reflects on his journey from Los Angeles and his excitement to screen The Smashing Machine at the festival where he is also honored as a visionary filmmaker.

Author’s Summary: Benny Safdie discusses trust, creative harmony, and Dwayne Johnson’s transformative role in The Smashing Machine ahead of receiving the Stockholm Visionary Award.

Vogue Scandinavia — 2025-11-11