Safdie Wins Silver Lion for “The Smashing Machine” at Venice Festival

Benny Safdie claimed the Silver Lion for Best Director at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival in Venice, Italy, on Sept. 6 for his solo debut “The Smashing Machine.”

A veteran of co-directing with brother Josh Safdie, Benny earned his first major solo accolade for the MMA biopic starring Dwayne Johnson, underscoring his transition to independent filmmaking.

Festival Crowning

The Alexander Payne-led jury honored Safdie’s portrayal of real-life fighter Mark Kerr, awarding him the Silver Lion from among 21 competing films. “The Smashing Machine” also enjoyed a 22-minute standing ovation upon its premiere.

Acceptance Speech and Omission

In his remarks, Safdie expressed gratitude to producers, cast and crew-singling out stars Emily Blunt and Johnson-and thanked his family. Notably, he omitted any mention of brother and longtime collaborator Josh, reflecting their creative split announced in 2024.

Other Major Winners

• Golden Lion (Best Film): Jim Jarmusch’s “Father Mother Sister Brother”
• Silver Lion (Grand Jury Prize): “The Voice of Hind Rajab” by Kaouther Ben Hania
• Volpi Cup (Best Actress): Xin Zhilei for “The Sun Rises on Us All”
• Volpi Cup (Best Actor): Toni Servillo for “La Grazia”
• Best Screenplay: Valérie Donzelli and Gilles Marchand for “At Work”
• Special Jury Prize: Gianfranco Rosi’s “Below the Clouds”
• Marcello Mastroianni Award: Luna Wedler for “Silent Friend”

Transition to Solo Career

Safdie’s win follows his announcement that he and Josh would pursue separate projects, with his brother’s solo debut slated for a holiday release. Industry observers view Benny’s Silver Lion as a strong statement of his individual directorial voice.