New psychological thriller casts Dwayne Johnson as a “morally questionable” guru

Dwayne Johnson is set to play a manipulative guru in A24’s upcoming thriller, Breakthrough.

The star is set to carry on working with the film production and distribution company, having already collaborated with them after Benny Safdie’s MMA biopic titled “The Smashing Machine“. This movie is scheduled for release in October this year.

A week ago, it was announced that in the upcoming film, Breakthrough, Johnson’s character will portray a charismatic self-help guru with a questionable moral compass. Beneath his alluring facade lies a shadowy side and a potentially harmful plan (as reported by Deadline)).

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In simpler terms, Johnson’s spiritual guide plays a significant role in the story, influencing a troubled young character who becomes deeply devoted to him.

Zeke Goodman is penning the script for this movie, marking his debut as a feature-length writer. Previously, he has been more involved in acting, with appearances in shows like “I Know What You Did Last Summer” series and the upcoming 2024’s “Cruel Intentions” TV remake.

The movie, released at the turn of the new millennium in sunny southern California, has been acclaimed for its gripping psychological suspense.

Further acting roles are being filled, including the main actor, secondary cast members, and additional story elements that will be revealed later. Currently, there’s no director assigned to the production.

In the upcoming project, Johnson, known for his work on Breakthrough, will portray the role of the actual MMA fighter Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine.

In this movie, directed by one of the Safdie brothers, Johnson teams up again with his “Jungle Cruise” partner Emily Blunt. She portrays Dawn Staples, Kerr’s former wife who was a popular Playboy model at that time.

The Smashing Machine also stars Ryan Bader, Bas Rutten and Oleksandr Usyk in supporting roles.

In the upcoming live-action adaptation of Disney’s Moana, slated for a 2026 release, Johnson takes on the character of Maui once again. Making her first appearance on the big screen is young actor Catherine Laga’aia, who portrays the main character, Moana. Also joining the cast are John Tui, Frankie Adams, and Rena Owen.

Breakthrough doesn’t have a release date yet.

The film “The Smashing Machine” will be screening in U.S. and U.K. cinemas starting from October 3rd. On the other hand, the movie “Moana” is scheduled for a U.S. premiere on July 10th, 2026.

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2025-05-26 19:19

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