Dwayne Johnson Undergoes 5-Hour Daily Transformation for Benny Safdie's 'Lizard Music,' Described as 'Willy Wonka' by Safdie

Dwayne Johnson, a prominent actor and producer known for his action roles and recent foray into dramatic transformations, has commenced production on "Lizard Music," a new film helmed by the acclaimed director Benny Safdie. Speaking with Deadline at the D23 event on Sunday, Johnson revealed the significant commitment required for his role in this project. He detailed an intensive daily makeup process that consumes five hours, a testament to the character's advanced age – he is portraying a 70-year-old man. This extensive physical metamorphosis underscores the ambitious nature of the film and Johnson's dedication to fully embodying his characters.

Johnson's description of "Lizard Music" as "'Willy Wonka' from the mind of Benny Safdie" offers a tantalizing glimpse into the film's creative direction. This comparison suggests a narrative that is likely to be surreal, imaginative, and perhaps even whimsical, drawing parallels to Roald Dahl's iconic story and its fantastical elements, filtered through Safdie's distinctive artistic sensibility. Benny Safdie, co-director of critically lauded films such as "Uncut Gems" (2019) and "Good Time" (2017), is renowned for his intense, character-driven narratives and visceral filmmaking style. His involvement inherently signals a project that will likely push boundaries and offer a unique cinematic experience.

This collaboration represents a reunion between Johnson and Safdie, who previously worked together on "The Smashing Machine." In that film, Johnson also underwent a notable physical transformation, portraying the troubled MMA fighter Mark Kerr. The success and critical reception of "The Smashing Machine" likely paved the way for this further creative partnership, allowing them to explore new artistic territories. The commitment to such a demanding makeup regimen for "Lizard Music" highlights the depth of character exploration planned for the film.

While specific plot details for "Lizard Music" are currently being kept under wraps, Johnson's evocative description hints at a departure from conventional storytelling. The film, produced by A24, a studio celebrated for its distinctive and artistically driven filmography, including "Moonlight" and "Everything Everywhere All at Once," is poised to be a significant addition to the independent cinema landscape. The involvement of A24 further solidifies the expectation of a high-caliber, artistically ambitious project. The daily five-hour makeup application is a crucial element in Johnson's portrayal of a man significantly older than himself, demanding meticulous attention to detail to achieve a convincing and immersive performance. Further announcements regarding the film's cast and release date are anticipated as production progresses.