In a surprise announcement, “The Rock” Dwayne Johnson says that he is no longer interested in making blockbuster flicks. To his fans’ dismay, the talented actor and former wrestler is shifting gears and moving away from the regular Hollywood movies.

He wants to explore his talent and engage in making more meaningful films with deeper and more dramatic roles. 

Looking for Substantial Characters

In his acting journey until now, The Rock has embodied many nuanced roles, from action-packed films to fantasies to slapstick comedies. But now, he feels it is high time to shift to more challenging and serious films with meaty characters. In an interview with Variety magazine, the former WWA ace revealed that he needs to feature in films that have characters dealing with “struggle & pain.”

The Rock clarified that he is not abandoning “big, four-quadrant movies.” However, he believes that at this point in his film career, he wishes to explore humanity. “I want to make films that matter,” Dwayne Johnson adds, “I’ve not pushed myself in the past.”

Aiming for Critical Acclaim

To date, Dwayne has played many roles in motion pictures, and off the screen, too. In the past, he was a football player, wrestler, and versatile actor with blockbuster hits. But now, he wants to achieve critical acclaim. “I love making commercial hits, and they have tremendous value and importance. However, there’s a time and a place for them.”

The 51-year-old Black Adam actor makes critical success his top priority in 2024. “I want stories with raw and real characters that are authentic and at times uncomfortable and arresting,” he expressed. 

Collaborating with Hungry People

The Rock is currently working with director Benny Safdie in The Smashing Machine. The biopic is a production of an independent studio A24. It features the story of a legendary MMA fighter and UFC pioneer Mark Kerr from 1997 to 2009. 

According to Deadline, Dwayne Johnson and Benny are singular talents collaborating on this incredibly special project. The Rock tied up with Benny as he has creative vision and daring storytelling that pushes the envelope. “Benny Safdie is the perfect, hungry partner for me,” Dwayne says, hoping he would achieve more than box office success.

Versatility in a Package

Dwayne shoulders the success of big-budget films like Black Adam, Moana, Ballers, Fast & Furious, and more. A doting dad to two girls, he co-owns a sports league and founded an energy drink brand.

Still, he says this combat sports drama role is the most dramatic yet and the most serious film until now. Dwayne Johnson is nicknamed “The People’s Champ” in the wrestling circuit. The Rock is indeed striving hard to give the masses what they expect of him — something more than popcorn flicks.