The Smashing Machine (2002)

  • NR
  • 05/01/2002 (US)
  • Documentary
  • 1h 33m

The Life and Times of Extreme Cage Fighter Mark Kerr

Overview

An unflinching look at the life and story of Mark Kerr between 1999 and 2001, an intelligent, articulate, and emotionally vulnerable athlete, considered by many at the time to be the most dominant ultimate fighter in the world. A former Olympic wrestler, Kerr easily dominated all his opponents, earning him the nickname "The Smashing Machine." With the promise of big money and the euphoria of his early victories, Kerr must battle his injuries and inner fears. The shock of these fights takes a heavy toll on his body and mind, and Kerr attempts to overcome these physical and psychological traumas by turning to painkillers. Kerr's addiction is shown in its raw form, with the camera capturing him desperately soliciting drugs from friends and staff, and injecting painkillers into his veins. His shocking defeat to Fujita in Japan shows us a story that is sometimes difficult and heartbreaking to watch.

John Hyams

Director

Cast

Mark Kerr's headshot

Mark Kerr

Self
Bas Rutten's headshot

Bas Rutten

Self
Mark Coleman's headshot

Mark Coleman

Self
Royce Gracie's headshot

Royce Gracie

Self
Dawn Staples's headshot

Dawn Staples

Self
Eddie Goldman's headshot

Eddie Goldman

Self
Ken Kilpatrick's headshot

Ken Kilpatrick

Self
Igor Vovchanchyn's headshot

Igor Vovchanchyn

Self

Recommendations