Wrestler Kurt Angle has high praise for director Benny Safdie’s The Smashing Machine, the biographical film featuring Dwayne Johnson as mixed martial arts fighter Mark Kerr. Angle’s comments come when the film is struggling to earn commercial success even as it builds on earlier critical recognition. According to Angle, the movie "deserves an Oscar" and “will be considered a classic" in the future. The wrestler added that he expects the film “will receive the recognition it merits” down the road.

The wrestler, who faced Kerr during his competitive career, highlighted the impact the film has on him at a personal level. Angle noted that Kerr was "The Guy" he "had to beat to qualify for the Olympic Games," and that it pushed him "to transform into a version of” himself he never considered he could become. Angle described Kerr’s story, outside of wrestling, as "truly inspirational."

The wrestler talked about Johnson’s performance as well. He stated that Johnson took on the role and "elevated it to another level in his career.” As for Angle, Johnson is so good in the film that it causes him to regard the actor as "one of the greatest performers today.” Angle described watching Johnson’s transformation into Kerr as a case of “deja vu”. The wrestler said that he has “no words, just applause” for the performance.

The Smashing Machine had its world premiere earlier this year at the Venice International Film Festival. There, Safdie received the Silver Lion for Best Director award, and the film earned a standing ovation. The film explores Kerr's life, including his relationship with his spouse, played by Emily Blunt, detailing his professional challenges in the world of MMA.