The Smashing Machine, directed by Benny Safdie and featuring Johnson as former UFC champion Mark Kerr, completed its 14th day in theatres. The film has garnered widespread critical praise for its raw portrayal of the brutal MMA world, coupled with Johnson’s emotional and nuanced performance — starkly contrasting his usual larger-than-life action persona.
By Day 13, the film had accumulated an estimated ₹108 crore globally, with ₹90 crore from North America and ₹18 crore from international markets. On Day 14, the movie added roughly ₹3–4 crore, reflecting a slight decline from the previous day but demonstrating a steady endurance typical of weekday collections for niche, critically acclaimed films.
The film opened strongly, raking in around ₹49 crore in its first weekend, but experienced a sharp drop of nearly 70% in the second week. This shows that while it has resonated with a niche audience, it hasn’t been able to sustain mass footfalls despite Johnson’s global star appeal.
Critics and audiences alike have praised the film for its storytelling and technical execution. Benny Safdie’s direction, gritty tone, and the use of 16mm cinematography capture the harsh reality of MMA while adding depth to the narrative. Johnson’s vulnerable and intense performance is frequently cited as the film’s highlight, earning accolades for his versatility.
If The Smashing Machine maintains a similar pace over the coming days, it could close its theatrical run near ₹120 crore globally — a respectable total for a serious sports drama in a crowded release window. While commercial numbers may not match blockbuster expectations, the film cements itself as a meaningful addition to Johnson’s filmography and a critical success story.
