What's happened
Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt star in 'The Smashing Machine,' a biopic about MMA fighter Mark Kerr, set for release on October 3. Meanwhile, Brad Pitt will lead 'The Riders,' directed by Edward Berger, based on Tim Winton's novel. Both films highlight significant narratives in the film industry.
What's behind the headline?
Industry Trends
- The rise of biopics reflects a growing interest in authentic storytelling, appealing to audiences seeking relatable narratives.
- Dwayne Johnson's shift towards more serious roles indicates a desire to diversify his filmography, moving beyond action blockbusters.
- Brad Pitt's involvement in 'The Riders' showcases his continued commitment to projects with depth and emotional resonance.
Implications for Actors
- Actors like Johnson and Pitt are leveraging their star power to bring attention to lesser-known stories, potentially influencing future projects.
- The collaboration with acclaimed directors like Benny Safdie and Edward Berger suggests a trend towards high-quality filmmaking in biographical genres.
Audience Reception
- As audiences become more discerning, films that tackle complex themes such as addiction and family dynamics are likely to resonate more deeply, potentially leading to critical acclaim and awards recognition.
What the papers say
According to Benjamin Lee in The Guardian, Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt's film 'The Smashing Machine' aims for awards glory, exploring the life of MMA fighter Mark Kerr. Lee notes that Johnson is eager to push his acting boundaries, stating, "I want to make films that matter."
In another piece, Catherine Shoard reports that Brad Pitt will star in 'The Riders,' directed by Edward Berger, which has been in development for 25 years. This film adapts Tim Winton's novel about a father's search for his missing wife, highlighting the emotional stakes involved.
Both articles emphasize the significance of these projects in the current cinematic landscape, where biopics are gaining traction and star power is being utilized to tell compelling stories.
How we got here
The film industry is currently experiencing a surge in biographical dramas, with major stars attached to projects that explore real-life stories. Recent announcements have included Dwayne Johnson's and Emily Blunt's roles in 'The Smashing Machine' and Brad Pitt's involvement in 'The Riders.'
Go deeper
- What is the plot of 'The Smashing Machine'?
- Who else is involved in 'The Riders'?
- What themes are explored in these films?
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