Dwayne Johnson embraces transformation for Lizard Music, confirms Jumanji 3 is also in the works

September 9, 2025 - 5:14 PM IST

Dwayne Johnson is stepping into an unexpected and creatively challenging role in his upcoming film Lizard Music, directed by Benny Safdie. The project marks a significant shift in the actor’s career as he moves beyond traditional action roles to explore more eccentric and character-driven narratives.

Dwayne Johnson embraces transformation for Lizard Music, confirms Jumanji 3 is also in the works

Lizard Music: A Bold New Role for Johnson

Speaking at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, Johnson opened up about his transformation for Lizard Music, in which he plays a quirky older character named Chicken Man—a man whose best friend is a chicken. The film is based on the cult novel by Daniel Pinkwater and marks Safdie’s next ambitious project.

Johnson revealed that the role required a complete change in mindset and lifestyle. “I still have a long way to go,” he admitted, referring to the physical transformation. Johnson is currently working to slim down after previously gaining 30 pounds of muscle for another project, The Smashing Machine. He also shared how the role came to him: “And after about 45 minutes, this pitch ended and I said, ‘I am your Chicken Man.’”

Moving Beyond the Action-Hero Mold

In the same interview, Johnson reflected on his evolving approach to acting, noting that he's now seeking roles that allow for more depth and creativity. “I felt for a few years, I was pigeonholed because I allowed it to happen,” he shared. Films like Lizard Music and The Smashing Machine represent a turning point in his career—an opportunity to break free from the action-hero stereotype and showcase a different side of his craft.

Jumanji 3 Also Set to Begin Soon

While Lizard Music takes Johnson into new territory, he also confirmed that he's not leaving big franchises behind. “The films that I made in the past, I love them. I’ll go back to making them again,” Johnson told Variety, confirming his return to the adventure series. He added that the film would “soon start shooting,” although no specific date was mentioned. The third installment will reunite him with longtime co-star Kevin Hart, following the massive global success of Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) and Jumanji: The Next Level (2019). Both films were widely praised for their humour, action, and the duo's strong on-screen chemistry.

What Fans Can Expect

While Jumanji 3 plot details remain under wraps, fans can likely expect another fast-paced, comedy-driven adventure. At the same time, Johnson’s role in Lizard Music offers a refreshing contrast—an introspective character in a story filled with surrealism and heart.

Together, these two films highlight a dynamic moment in Johnson’s career: one where he's balancing box-office hits with artistically rich performances, all while redefining what audiences can expect from him on screen.

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