This Dwayne Johnson Blockbuster Is a Surprise Streaming Hit 10 Years After Release

Dwayne Johnson‘s new movie, *The Smashing Machine*, opens next week and many are predicting he’ll receive an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of UFC fighter Mark Kerr. While this biopic is generating a lot of excitement, another one of Johnson’s films is also capturing attention – a ten-year-old action hit that’s currently very popular on Netflix.

Though Dwayne Johnson is known for action roles, audiences are currently most engaged with his 2015 film, *San Andreas*. Directed by Brad Peyton, the disaster thriller also features Carla Gugino, Alexandra Daddario, Ioan Gruffudd, Archie Panjabi, and Paul Giamatti. The story revolves around a massive earthquake on the San Andreas Fault, which causes widespread destruction along the West Coast. Dwayne Johnson plays Ray Gaines, a rescue helicopter pilot who races against time to save his wife (Gugino) and daughter (Daddario) amidst the chaos between Los Angeles and San Francisco. The film is currently performing very well, ranking as the number 2 movie in the U.S.

When the film first came out, critics had varying opinions, though they generally liked the special effects and Dwayne Johnson’s acting. Viewers loved it, though, and it earned an impressive $474 million worldwide, making it one of the most successful original live-action films from Hollywood.

San Andreas Is Nonstop, Ridiculous Destruction With a Remarkably Serious Story

Disaster movies are often exaggerated, but *San Andreas* stands out by successfully combining over-the-top action and destruction with a genuinely heartfelt story and believable performances. These performances, particularly Dwayne Johnson’s, give the film emotional depth beyond typical action fare. Johnson handles the film’s incredible stunts with skill, yet grounds his character in relatable human struggles, reminding us that disasters are ultimately about people, their challenges, and the desire to protect their loved ones. This focus makes the film surprisingly impactful.

Even years after its release, *San Andreas* remains a compelling disaster film. The story centers around a massive earthquake and the subsequent tsunami that devastates California. While relying heavily on special effects, the film still looks remarkably good and often feels incredibly realistic, despite advancements in technology. *San Andreas* successfully combines spectacular visuals with a heartfelt story about family survival, making it a truly satisfying watch. It’s no surprise that, with Dwayne Johnson receiving praise for his recent work, many people are rediscovering *San Andreas* on Netflix.

San Andreas is currently streaming on Netflix.

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2025-09-27 17:13