Brandon Sanderson Defends Dwayne Johnson’s Acting Chops

Brandon Sanderson isn’t having a bar of the criticism often thrown at Dwayne Johnson. On his YouTube podcast, the author gave the former wrestler a fair bit of praise, saying he’s carved out a spot for himself in the film industry and stuck to what works. Sanderson reckons Johnson’s got a knack for playing to his strengths, and punters are a bit too quick to take the mickey out of him.

I keep pointing out, I say, The Rock is a good actor. The Rock has found a persona that people really like, that is successful, and he often acts that character, but people are too hard on The Rock.

Johnson’s copped flak for sticking to similar roles, but Sanderson argues he’s got enough range to keep audiences entertained—even if his build doesn’t always fit the part. Take his turn in Jumanji, for example, where he managed to play a bumbling nerd so convincingly you almost forget he’s built like a brick outhouse.

I think even things like Jumanji, he’s showing a lot of range, and if you watch this clip, you’ll be like, ‘Wow, he plays a befuddled nerd, and you can almost forget that it’s a man who has biceps the size of my head, who is playing the befuddled nerd. He’s good.

Despite a string of box office duds, Johnson’s kept his focus on projects that matter to him. After years of headlining big-budget action flicks, he’s now giving smaller, indie films a crack.

Hollywood’s Pigeonhole: The Rock’s Career in a Corner

Johnson’s been open about the way Hollywood operates, saying the industry’s obsession with cash often stifles creativity and boxes artists in. Working on the sports biopic The Smashing Machine made him realise how tough it is to be vulnerable on screen, especially when you’re known for playing tough blokes.

At the Venice Film Festival, he spoke about wanting to move past the blockbuster formula and the pressure he’s faced over the years:

It can push you into a corner and category – ‘This is your lane, this is what you do, and this is what people want you to be, and this is what Hollywood wants you to be.’

He’s got no regrets about the films that didn’t set the box office alight, but admits being typecast made it hard to show what else he could bring to the table.

Recognition at Last: Golden Globe Nod for The Smashing Machine

Sanderson’s not the only one who sees potential in Johnson. This year, the actor’s up for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama at the 83rd Golden Globe Awards for his role in The Smashing Machine. Critics have singled out his performance, calling it a real eye-opener—even if the film itself didn’t pull in the crowds.

Here’s a quick look at the film’s details:

With this recognition, it looks like Johnson might be keen to take on more indie projects, showing off his skills beyond the usual action hero fare.

What do you reckon—does The Rock deserve more credit for his acting? Let us know your thoughts below.