Dwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine: The Life and Times of Extreme Fighter Mark Kerr
Dwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine: The Life and Times of Extreme Fighter Mark Kerr

New Rock Movie Releases: What Dwayne Johnson Has Coming Up

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has solidified his position as a Hollywood powerhouse, transitioning from a celebrated WWE icon to a global movie star. Even a quick glance at the list of upcoming Dwayne Johnson movies confirms his incredible journey and enduring appeal. From his early roles, including his debut as his father, Rocky Johnson, in a memorable episode of That ’70s Show, and his breakthrough performance as the Scorpion King in The Mummy Returns, Johnson’s career trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric.

With a diverse slate of projects on the horizon, both in theaters and streaming, fans are eagerly anticipating the next chapters in The Rock’s cinematic journey. While some New Rock Movie releases might be further down the line due to the complexities of film production, this guide offers a comprehensive look at what Dwayne Johnson has in store for audiences through 2025 and beyond. If you’re a fan of action, adventure, or compelling dramas, there’s a new rock movie on this list for you.

The Smashing Machine (2025)

Dwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine: The Life and Times of Extreme Fighter Mark KerrDwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine: The Life and Times of Extreme Fighter Mark Kerr

(Image credit: Solaris)

While Dwayne Johnson has tackled sports-related roles before, his upcoming film, The Smashing Machine, promises a significantly darker and more intense portrayal. This new A24 movie, marking the solo directorial debut of Benny Safdie (known for his collaborations with brother Josh Safdie, including the sports biopic Marty Supreme), delves into the tumultuous life of MMA legend Mark Kerr and his battles with addiction. This departure from Johnson’s typically heroic roles is generating considerable buzz as a highly anticipated new rock movie.

A first look image released by A24 on X showcased a dramatically transformed Dwayne Johnson, almost unrecognizable in his portrayal of Mark Kerr. Reports from GQ even mentioned that some individuals on set initially failed to recognize the actor. Adding to the star power, Emily Blunt, Johnson’s co-star from Jungle Cruise, will appear as Kerr’s wife, Dawn Staples. Production for The Smashing Machine concluded in Vancouver, as reported by YVRShoots Tweets in July, setting the stage for what promises to be a powerful and transformative new rock movie experience.

Moana (July 10, 2026)

Maui and Moana in Disney's Moana animated movieMaui and Moana in Disney's Moana animated movie

(Image credit: Disney)

Following the immense success of Moana 2 in 2024, Dwayne Johnson is set to expand the beloved Polynesian story with a live-action adaptation of the original animated Moana. This new Disney movie, directed by Thomas Kail of Hamilton fame, is scheduled for release in July 2026 and will reimagine the journey of a young Polynesian woman determined to save her island from a devastating curse. This live-action Moana is a highly anticipated new rock movie, especially for families and Disney enthusiasts.

Fans will be delighted to see Johnson reprise his role as the charismatic demigod Maui. This role holds deep personal significance for the actor, making his return all the more special. While Auliʻi Cravalho, the original voice of Moana, will serve as an executive producer, the title role of Moana will be taken on by 17-year-old Australian actress Catherine Laga’aia. This new rock movie promises to bring the magic of Moana to life in a spectacular new way.

Jumanji 4 (December 11, 2026)

Dwayne Johnson as Dr. Bravestone in Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle movieDwayne Johnson as Dr. Bravestone in Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle movie

(Image credit: Sony Pictures)

Decades after the original Jumanji captivated audiences with its mystical board game premise starring Robin Williams and Kirsten Dunst, Dwayne Johnson spearheaded a successful revival of the franchise with 2017’s Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, directed by Jake Kasdan. He returned as Dr. Smolder Bravestone in the 2019 sequel, Jumanji: The Next Level, and it appears the adventure is set to continue with another new rock movie.

Sony Pictures officially announced in October 2024 that Jumanji 4 is slated for release in December 2026. This confirmation follows earlier hints from Jumanji franchise star Kevin Hart, who mentioned the sequel was in development during a 2023 red carpet interview with Variety. The return of Johnson in this action-adventure franchise guarantees another exciting and fun-filled new rock movie experience for audiences of all ages.

Fast X: Part 2 (2026)

Dwayne Johnson as Luke Hobbs in Fast X post-credit sceneDwayne Johnson as Luke Hobbs in Fast X post-credit scene

(Image credit: Universal)

For a period, it seemed Dwayne Johnson’s portrayal of Luke Hobbs in the Fast & Furious saga had concluded with the spin-off Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw in 2019, particularly given the well-publicized tension between Johnson and Vin Diesel. Diesel even playfully alluded to their past issues when greeting Johnson at the Golden Globes. However, the landscape has shifted, paving the way for a thrilling new rock movie in the Fast universe.

Following a surprise cameo appearance in the post-credits scene of Fast X, The Rock confirmed his return to the main franchise in an X post. In a video filmed in Hawaii, he announced his involvement in Fast X: Part 2, the eleventh installment in the high-octane series, expected to arrive in 2026. Fans can anticipate more of Hobbs’ signature action in this upcoming new rock movie, promising to rev up the excitement of the Fast & Furious saga.

Untitled Martin Scorsese Hawaii Crime Drama

Dwayne Johnson announcing live-action Moana movie on a beachDwayne Johnson announcing live-action Moana movie on a beach

(Image credit: Walt Disney Pictures)

Dwayne Johnson is set to collaborate once again with Emily Blunt in a project that marks exciting new territory for the actor. This untitled crime drama will be his first venture with the acclaimed director-actor duo of Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio. The film, based on a true crime story set in Hawaii, represents a significant shift for Johnson, moving into a more prestige drama genre for a compelling new rock movie experience.

According to Deadline, Johnson and Blunt were instrumental in bringing the project to Scorsese and DiCaprio, all of whom will also serve as producers. Nick Bilton, known for producing true-crime documentaries like The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley, is penning the screenplay. This collaboration promises a gripping and sophisticated new rock movie, showcasing Johnson’s versatility as an actor.

Monster Jam (TBA)

Monster truck jumping during a Monster Jam eventMonster truck jumping during a Monster Jam event

(Image credit: Monster Truck Reels)

Adding to his diverse portfolio of upcoming Disney movies, Dwayne Johnson is developing a film based on the high-energy live event, Monster Jam. Announced at the 2024 D23 Expo, this project seems perfectly aligned with Johnson’s action-oriented persona. While details are still under wraps, this new rock movie concept has the potential to deliver high-octane entertainment.

Monster Jam events are known for showcasing heavily modified trucks performing stunts and races. Johnson teased at the D23 Expo that the Monster Jam movie will be “a heck of a ride,” suggesting an action-packed and visually thrilling new rock movie for audiences seeking adrenaline-fueled entertainment.

Red Notice 2 (TBA)

Dwayne Johnson, Gal Gadot, and Ryan Reynolds in Red Notice movieDwayne Johnson, Gal Gadot, and Ryan Reynolds in Red Notice movie

(Image credit: Netflix)

The massive success of the 2021 Netflix original movie Red Notice, starring Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, and Gal Gadot, made a sequel almost inevitable. Netflix announced plans for not just one, but potentially two sequels to Rawson Marshall Thurber’s action-comedy, ensuring the continuation of this popular new rock movie franchise.

Gal Gadot confirmed in a 2023 interview with Collider that Red Notice 2 is still actively in development, with all three lead cast members eager to return. While updates have been scarce since late 2024, the anticipation remains high for this new rock movie, which promises to reunite the star-studded cast for another globe-trotting adventure, likely available on Netflix upon release.

Jungle Cruise 2 (TBA)

Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt on a boat in Jungle Cruise movieDwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt on a boat in Jungle Cruise movie

(Image credit: Walt Disney Studios)

Dwayne Johnson’s strong relationship with Disney extends to the Jungle Cruise franchise, based on the iconic theme park attraction. Following the 2021 adventure film Jungle Cruise, which also starred Emily Blunt, a sequel was announced to be in development. This suggests that Captain Frank Wolff’s adventures are far from over in this new rock movie series.

While updates on Jungle Cruise 2 have been limited, The Rock mentioned at the 2024 Oscars red carpet to Variety that the sequel could “possibly” happen “down the line.” This indicates that while not yet guaranteed, there’s still potential for Johnson and Blunt to reunite for another thrilling journey in this adventure-filled new rock movie.

San Andreas 2 (TBA)

Dwayne Johnson as a rescue helicopter pilot in San Andreas movieDwayne Johnson as a rescue helicopter pilot in San Andreas movie

(Image credit: Warner Bros.)

In the disaster blockbuster San Andreas (2015), Dwayne Johnson played a rescue helicopter pilot navigating the aftermath of a devastating earthquake in Los Angeles. The film’s global box office success of $473 million quickly spurred talks of a sequel. San Andreas 2 remains a possibility as a potential new rock movie in the disaster genre.

The last significant update came in late 2021 when Hiram Garcia indicated they were actively “working hard” on developing a compelling story for the sequel. Alexandra Daddario has also expressed her enthusiasm to reprise her role. However, the realization of San Andreas 2 appears to hinge on Dwayne Johnson’s availability, making it a project to watch for future developments in the realm of new rock movies.

Big Trouble in Little China (TBA)

Kurt Russell holding a weapon in Big Trouble in Little China movieKurt Russell holding a weapon in Big Trouble in Little China movie

(Image credit: Twentieth Century Fox)

Back in 2015, Dwayne Johnson confirmed plans for a new take on the cult classic Big Trouble in Little China. Intended as a continuation rather than a remake, this project aims to honor John Carpenter’s original film without Johnson directly replacing Kurt Russell’s iconic Jack Burton. This approach to a beloved property makes it a noteworthy, albeit potentially controversial, new rock movie endeavor.

Despite Johnson’s respect for the source material, both John Carpenter and Kurt Russell have expressed reservations about revisiting Big Trouble in Little China. The most recent update from Hiram Garcia in mid-2021 suggested that they are still in the process of “figure out the proper way to continue the story.” Adding another layer of complexity, James Wan and Patrick Wilson have also expressed interest in developing their own BTLC reboot. The future of this new rock movie remains uncertain, with competing visions potentially vying for development.

The King (TBA)

Dwayne Johnson as The Scorpion King MathayusDwayne Johnson as The Scorpion King Mathayus

(Image credit: Universal)

Dwayne Johnson has consistently used his platform to highlight Samoan culture, evident in projects like Moana and Hobbs & Shaw. The King represents an even more direct exploration of his heritage. This biopic, announced in 2018, will see Johnson portray King Kamehameha, who united the Hawaiian Islands in the late 18th century. This historical drama stands out as a unique and personally significant new rock movie project.

Teaming up with directors Husain El-Minbawi and Robert Zemeckis, Johnson aims to bring this important historical figure to life on the big screen. While The King is likely a passion project for Johnson, its production timeline remains unclear amidst his busy schedule. Nevertheless, it’s a highly anticipated new rock movie for those interested in historical epics and stories of cultural significance.

Beyond his extensive acting commitments, Dwayne Johnson is also actively involved in producing various projects and has even ventured into the men’s skincare market with his Papatui line. Rumors also circulate about potential Marvel Cinematic Universe involvement, with speculation suggesting he might play the X-Men villain Apocalypse. However, for now, these remain unconfirmed. For further updates on these and other new rock movie projects, stay tuned. As Maui would say, you’re welcome for this overview of Dwayne Johnson’s upcoming cinematic adventures.

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