Dwayne Johnson Transforms into Mark Kerr with Expert Makeup for ‘The Smashing Machine’
In the upcoming film “The Smashing Machine,” the story of UFC legend Mark Kerr is brought to life, showcasing his journey through mixed martial arts and personal struggles. Directed by Benny Safdie, the film highlights Kerr’s battle with addiction and its impact on his relationship with partner Dawn Staples.
Dwayne Johnson’s Transformation into Mark Kerr
Dwayne Johnson delivers a remarkable performance as Mark Kerr, undergoing a significant physical transformation to embody the fighter’s persona. This transformation was expertly executed by makeup artist Kazu Hiro, renowned for his work on films like “Bombshell” and “Darkest Hour.”
Makeup Techniques and Challenges
Hiro’s team utilized up to 22 prosthetic pieces daily, with applications taking two to four hours per session. Key makeup techniques included:
- Prosthetic Application: Multiple prosthetics were crucial for achieving realism.
- Cauliflower Ear: The team crafted lifelike prosthetics to replicate Kerr’s unique feature.
- Brow Bone Simulation: A special prosthetic was developed to mirror Kerr’s pronounced brow bone while allowing Johnson to express emotions.
This transformation went beyond appearances; it captured the essence of Kerr’s unique facial structure, enabling Johnson to convey the complexities of the character.
Maintaining Authenticity in Action Scenes
During action sequences, the makeup process became increasingly challenging. To maintain continuity, features like swollen cheeks and bruised eyes were essential. Managing Johnson’s tattoos was another hurdle, as sweat often undermined their coverage, necessitating continuous touch-ups throughout filming.
A striking scene features Kerr’s struggle with addiction, realistically portrayed using special effects. The team created fake veins filled with saline to depict drug use, emphasizing the film’s dedication to authenticity in addressing the severe consequences of addiction.
Attention to Hair and Details
The film also prioritized accuracy in hair styling. Kazu Hiro mentioned that replicating Kerr’s hairstyles was key for authenticity. Notably, a haircut scene involved collaboration with a barber to seamlessly integrate Johnson’s look with his performance.
Overall, “The Smashing Machine” transcends the typical biopic format. It showcases the artistry involved in film makeup and storytelling. Dwayne Johnson’s transformation into Mark Kerr is a profound representation of the athlete’s challenges both inside and outside the ring.
