Benny Safdie Smashes Solo: Directing "The Smashing Machine" Without Brother Josh

Benny Safdie Breaks Out on His Own: Directing "The Smashing Machine" Without Brother Josh At the Los Angeles premiere of his new film, "The Smashing Machine," Benny Safdie revealed that directing solo was a natural progression for him. The movie, starring Dwayne Johnson as MMA fighter Mark Kerr, marks Safdie's first project without his brother Josh. Safdie's Solo Debut: A New Chapter Benny Safdie has been acting on his own for some time and had previously collaborated with his brother Josh on films like "Uncut Gems" (2019) and "Good Time" (2017). However, with "The Smashing Machine," he stepped into the director's chair solo. When asked about the experience, Safdie told The Hollywood Reporter, "It wasn't really an adjustment to be at the helm solo... I had been acting a lot on my own for a while, and there's a level of independence that you have there." Timeline: Monday night: Los Angeles premiere of "The Smashing Machine" 2019: Safdie directed "Uncut Gems" with brother Josh 2017: Safdie collaborated with brother Josh on "Good Time" Immediate Impact and Response Audiences are eager to see how Safdie's solo direction will shape the film. Johnson, who stars in the movie, praised his director, saying, "Benny is a genius." The premiere marked a significant moment for Safdie as he embarks on this new chapter in his career. Background Context: Safdie and his brother Josh have been making waves in the industry with their unique filmmaking style. Their collaborations often explore themes of crime, family, and redemption. With "The Smashing Machine," Benny Safdie is now taking the reins solo, exploring new creative avenues. What Happens Next? "The Smashing Machine" hits theaters nationwide on March 17th. Fans are eagerly anticipating the film's release, curious to see how Safdie's solo direction will shape the story of Mark Kerr, a real-life MMA fighter. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Hollywoodreporter reporting.*