Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is generating buzz as an Oscar contender for his upcoming film, A24’s The Smashing Machine. Based on the documentary of the same name, the movie tells the true story of Mark Kerr, a mixed martial artist and fighter who battled addiction. Johnson underwent a physical transformation to play Kerr, working with renowned prosthetic makeup designer Kazu Hiro.
Industry insiders are taking note of Johnson’s potential Oscar nod, citing his Best Actor performances in films like Dallas Buyers Club and his versatility as an actor. The connection between acting and hair/makeup Oscars is well-documented, with several winners carrying over from the former category to the latter.
Johnson’s stature within the industry, primarily known for action hero roles, could also work in his favor if he becomes an Oscar nominee. Notable examples include actors who have won Oscars playing real people, such as Hilary Swank (Million Dollar Baby) and Denzel Washington (The Hurricane).
While The Smashing Machine’s place as a contender largely depends on the response it receives during the fall, Johnson’s recent film attachments with Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio, as well as his discussions with A24’s Benny Safdie, suggest he may be taking steps to challenge himself in more dramatic roles. As The Smashing Machine nears its release, fans and industry observers will be watching to see if Johnson can make a lasting impact on the Oscar stage.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/articles/dwayne-johnson-future-oscar-nominee-200007611.html