Emily Blunt Teases ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ and Why She Never Saw ‘The Rock’ While Filming ‘The Smashing Machine’

Emily Blunt Teases ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ and Reflects on ‘The Smashing Machine’

Emily Blunt discussed her new role and creative process during a recent episode of the Awards Circuit Podcast, where she also touched on her upcoming projects and her experience filming “The Smashing Machine.”

Exploring Emotional Depth in “The Smashing Machine”

Blunt, known for immersing herself fully in diverse roles—from a time-looping soldier in “Edge of Tomorrow” to a haunted wife in “A Quiet Place”—described Benny Safdie’s latest film as one of her most challenging projects yet.

“When I saw it with Benny, we both sobbed. It’s strange when you make a movie and then see it reflected back at you. You’re on the inside looking out, and suddenly you’re kidnapped into someone else’s vision of the world.”

She praised co-star Dwayne Johnson’s transformation, noting that he reinvented himself entirely to play Kerr.

“It’s almost more than a performance. I never once saw ‘The Rock’ on set. What he did was extraordinary, but it’s also closer to his soul than people might imagine.”

Redefining a Misunderstood Character

Blunt portrays Dawn Staples, the ex-wife of Kerr, and sought to depict her as more than the vilified figure from the 2002 documentary that inspired the film.

“She was nervous about talking to me at first. I told her, ‘I will be your advocate.’ And when she opened up, it was invaluable.”

Through empathy and honesty, Blunt discovered a more nuanced view of her character, prioritizing emotional truth over sensationalism.

Author’s Summary

Emily Blunt opens up about the vulnerability behind “The Smashing Machine,” praising Dwayne Johnson’s transformation and her aim to humanize the story’s overlooked woman.

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Variety Variety — 2025-11-02

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