Dwayne Johnson Reunites With A24 For Psychological Thriller Breakthrough

Dwayne Johnson is set to star in "Breakthrough," a psychological thriller produced and financed by A24, marking his second collaboration with the indie studio after the upcoming MMA drama "The Smashing Machine." The film, written by Zeke Goodman, is set in early-2000s Southern California and follows an alienated young man who falls under the influence of a charismatic but manipulative motivational guru, a role Johnson will portray. While the director has not yet been announced, casting for the lead and other supporting roles is ongoing. This project aligns with Johnson's recent shift towards more grounded, dramatic roles, diverging from his traditional blockbuster persona. Johnson also has notable upcoming projects, including a lead role in a Martin Scorsese film and producing efforts under his Seven Bucks Productions. "The Smashing Machine," directed by Benny Safdie and starring Johnson as real-life MMA fighter Mark Kerr, is scheduled for release in October 2025.