Dwayne Johnson received rave reviews for his portrayal of Toledo native Mark Kerr after the Venice premiere of "The Smashing Machine." Photo: Gisela Schober/Getty Images
The talk of the film world this week features a story that began in Ohio.
Driving the news: "The Smashing Machine" premiered at the Venice Film Festival Monday to rave reviews, Oscar buzz and a 15-minute standing ovation that left star Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson in tears.
Catch up quick: The film tells the story of wrestler and MMA fighter Mark Kerr, a Toledo native.
It's directed by Benny Safdie, known for films "Good Time" and "Uncut Gems."
Zoom in: Kerr was a state champion wrestler at Toledo Waite High School before competing at Syracuse University.
The intrigue: Critics have lauded Johnson's performance, and the former wrestler is now building momentum for a surprise Academy Award campaign.
