Dwayne Johnson has traded his signature charisma for raw vulnerability in a performance that many believe will finally secure him an Oscar. This gritty biopic is currently making waves as one of the most talked-about dramas.

The Smashing Machine has achieved a solid 6.4/10 on IMDb and a 70% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which is stunned by the physical transformation of The Rock. While the buzz is undeniable, many fans are wondering if they can catch this intense story on their favorite streaming service, Netflix.

The digital availability of this sports drama has become a major topic for subscribers this month.

As of late January 2026, The Smashing Machine is not available to stream on Netflix. The film is currently a featured title on HBO Max, where it recently climbed to the top of the streaming charts. If viewers do not have an HBO Max subscription, they can also find it through the HBO Max channel on Amazon Prime Video.

For those who prefer to own their movies, digital platforms like Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, FlixFling, and Plex offer the film for purchase. Viewers can also find the movie on Crunchyroll and Hulu.

While Netflix users are currently out of luck, the film's success on other platforms suggests it will remain a high-demand title throughout the awards season. Directed by Benny Safdie, the film chronicles the turbulent life of MMA legend Mark Kerr as he battles opponents in the cage and addiction outside of it.

‘The Smashing Machine’ to ‘Christy’: 'Stranger Things’ $25M Finale Crushes 2025’s Big-Budget Star-Studded Movies

Behind the brutal fight scenes lies a complex story about the high price of professional greatness.

The Smashing Machine provides an intimate look at Mark Kerr's rapid ascent to become a UFC Heavyweight Champion and a star in Japan’s Pride FC. It accurately captures the anything-goes era of early mixed martial arts, where Kerr earned his nickname for his dominant wrestling style. The narrative does not shy away from his personal demons.

Director Benny Safdie chose to focus on the pivotal years between 1997 and 2000 to keep the story fast-paced and impactful. While many scenes are highly accurate, some moments were dramatized to increase the emotional weight of Kerr’s private struggles.

For instance, a scene involving a broken Japanese bowl was originally a torn silk robe in real life, but the change adds a sharper visual metaphor for his unravelling life. A key highlight of the movie is the portrayal of Kerr’s deep bond with fellow fighter Mark Coleman, who remains a central figure in his journey. The director utilized private room scenes to imagine the intimate conversations that shaped Kerr’s decisions during his darkest hours.

Is There a Smashing Machine Documentary? How Can You Watch It in 2025?

Have you watched The Smashing Machine or are you waiting for it land on Netflix? Let us know in the comments below.