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Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson left everyone in awe during his appearance at the Venice Film Festival, where he reemerged unrecognizable after a surprising physical transformation. The 53-year-old actor lost 60 pounds (27 kilograms) to portray mixed martial arts fighter Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine, his new and most ambitious film project.
Known for his impressive musculature and dominating presence both in film and professional wrestling, Johnson appeared noticeably slimmer, with a refined face and a much less bulky figure. The transformation involved not only a strict weight loss but also the use of facial prosthetics and a wig, led by the renowned makeup artist Kazu Hiro.
The change was so drastic that many festival attendees barely recognized him on the red carpet. Dressed in a patterned shirt and white pants, the actor broke away from the physical image that has defined him for decades. On social media, reactions came swiftly: some humorously nicknamed him The Pebble, while others expressed concern for his health.
However, Johnson clarified that the transformation was entirely intentional and a result of his absolute commitment to the character of Kerr, a tragic figure in sports marked by addiction to painkillers. “This transformation was something I longed to do,” the actor explained. “I wanted to show that I am capable of more than action movies.”
The physical challenge also had an emotional dimension. Johnson acknowledged that it was "terrifying" to step out of his comfort zone, but necessary for his growth as an actor. "Hollywood typecast me for years, and I allowed it as well. This role was an opportunity to show a different side of myself," he said during the press conference in Venice.
With this extreme transformation, Dwayne Johnson not only surprised the audience but also embarked on his journey toward critical recognition. The 15-minute standing ovation he received after the screening of The Smashing Machine validates his effort and could mark the beginning of his path toward a possible Oscar nomination, with a new image and, above all, a renewed artistic ambition.
Below is the trailer for The Smashing Machine:
Frequently Asked Questions About Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's Transformation for His New Movie
Why did Dwayne Johnson lose so much weight for his new movie?
Dwayne Johnson lost 27 kilos to play the mixed martial arts fighter Mark Kerr in the movie "The Smashing Machine." This transformation was part of his dedication to embody a character defined by addiction to painkillers, aiming to showcase his ability to adapt to more dramatic roles, moving away from his usual action films.
How did Dwayne Johnson achieve his physical transformation?
To achieve his transformation, Dwayne Johnson not only lost weight rigorously but also resorted to the use of facial prosthetics and a wig. The renowned makeup artist Kazu Hiro led this drastic change, which included a complete reconfiguration of his usual image.
What impact has this image change had on Dwayne Johnson's career?
The transformation could mark the beginning of her journey toward critical recognition and a possible Oscar nomination, thanks to the 15-minute standing ovation she received after the screening of "The Smashing Machine". This effort showcases her renewed artistic ambition and her desire to break free from Hollywood's typecasting.
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