Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson earns early Oscar buzz for his role in the Venice Film Festival premiere "The Smashing Machine."

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is generating Oscar buzz for his role in "The Smashing Machine," which premiered at the Venice Film Festival. The film, directed by Benny Safdie and released by A24, tells the story of former UFC fighter Mark Kerr, who struggled with addiction. Venice Film Festival's artistic director, Alberto Barbera, praised Johnson's performance, suggesting he and co-star Emily Blunt could be Oscar nominees next year.