Wrestling emotions

Dwayne Johnson muscles his way into possible Oscar contention in writer-director Benny Safdie's lightweight biopic of a sports star, considered one of the fiercest no holds barred fighters on the planet in his heyday.

- 

The film opens with Mark (Johnson) making an indelible impact at his first MMA tournament in Sao Paulo by pummelling every opponent who strays into the ring. He showcases his muscular talents at the Pride Fighting Championships in Japan, supported by girlfriend Dawn (Emily Blunt), who repeatedly distracts Mark from training.