Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has cemented himself as one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars. From his WWE days to dominating the silver screen, Johnson has made a career out of playing larger-than-life characters. Yet, even with his undeniable charisma and presence, there’s one critique that seems to follow him like a shadow: typecasting. Can his upcoming projects finally break the mold?
The Dwayne Johnson Dilemma: Too Much Muscle, Too Little Range
When people think of action heroes, it’s hard not to picture Dwayne Johnson. With his towering physique and megawatt smile, he’s the embodiment of Hollywood’s tough-guy archetype. However, his career has often been criticized for prioritizing brawn over depth.
While Johnson has flexed his acting chops in films like Pain & Gain and Fighting with My Family, these performances are often overshadowed by blockbuster roles in franchises like Fast & Furious or Jumanji. The audience, too, has grown vocal about their desire to see more range from the actor.
“Bro should just stick to WWE,” tweeted a fan recently, reflecting a sentiment that Johnson’s talents are being underutilized.
But does Hollywood share some of the blame? Casting directors lean heavily on Johnson’s action-hero image, often overlooking his ability to tackle nuanced, complex roles. Despite this, there’s hope on the horizon.
Upcoming Projects That Could Change the Game
Moana 2: A Return to Heartfelt Storytelling
When Moana first hit theaters, Johnson’s portrayal of Maui showcased a different side of the actor. The character was funny, flawed, and full of heart—far from the stoic action heroes he’s often cast as. Johnson’s comedic timing and even his singing chops won fans over, proving he could thrive in roles that demanded emotional depth.
Now, with Moana 2 set to release in just a few days, audiences are eager to see Johnson reprise his role. Paired with Auliʻi Cravalho as Moana, the sequel promises a gripping storyline as the duo embarks on a journey to undo a curse placed on a hidden island by the god Nalo.
This return to the animated world could be a refreshing change for Johnson, further emphasizing his versatility.
The Smashing Machine: A Biographical Drama Worth Watching
Perhaps the most promising entry in Johnson’s upcoming lineup is The Smashing Machine. Directed by Benny Safdie and produced by A24, the film is based on the life of wrestler-turned-MMA fighter Mark Kerr. Known for his tumultuous career and struggles with addiction, Kerr’s story is a far cry from Johnson’s usual fare.
“Fans will get to see Johnson like never before,” promised A24, and the excitement is palpable.
Sharing the screen with Emily Blunt and a stellar cast, The Smashing Machine could be the role that redefines Johnson’s Hollywood trajectory.
Live-Action Moana: A Bold Leap into New Territory
If voicing Maui wasn’t enough, Johnson is set to bring the character to life in Disney’s live-action adaptation of Moana, slated for a 2026 release. While some fans might miss Auliʻi Cravalho’s portrayal of Moana, Catherine Laga’aia will bring her own spin to the titular character.
For Johnson, this role is a full-circle moment. Not only does Maui bear a striking resemblance to him, but stepping into a live-action fantasy film also offers an opportunity to expand his repertoire.
Why These Films Matter
Hollywood loves a safe bet, and Dwayne Johnson has been that for years. But his upcoming projects signal a willingness to experiment—both from Johnson and the studios backing him.
With Moana 2, The Smashing Machine, and the live-action Moana, Johnson has a chance to showcase his range, proving he’s more than just muscles and charm. Whether it’s through heartfelt storytelling or gritty drama, these films could finally allow him to step out of the action-hero box.
Can Dwayne Johnson Reinvent Himself?
The road to reinvention is rarely smooth, but Johnson has already proven he thrives on challenges. If his upcoming slate of films delivers on its promises, it could mark a turning point in his career.
For now, fans can only hope Hollywood sees the potential in Dwayne Johnson—beyond the biceps. As Moana 2 gears up for its release and The Smashing Machine inches closer to completion, one thing is clear: The Rock may finally be breaking free from the mold.