The Von Erich family is a pivotal part of the history of professional wrestling, but to the average person, the tragic events that occurred to the family are unknown. Telling the cautionary tale of the Von Erich family tragedies was Sean Durkin’s ultimate goal when creating The Iron Claw, and he succeeded.
Kevin Von Erich (Zac Efron) is the eldest of three brothers: Carrie (Jeremy Allen White), David (Harris Dickinson), and Mike (Stanley Simons), each of whom finds success in the wrestling industry, a success which takes its toll. The brothers are brought up through the family business by their father, Fritz Von Erich (Holt McCalley), who, by instilling his endless pursuit of greatness upon his sons, creates the toxicity that leads to his children’s issues later in life.
The family’s story plays out like a Greek tragedy. The plot follows Kevin Von Erich’s career, from his initial days fighting for his father to later years as he begins his own family. Throughout Kevin’s journey, he experiences grief on a level that is hard to believe in a film based on actual events, and the emotional toll of the character’s journey can be felt from across the silver screen.
While the film serves as an epic tribute to the world of professional wrestling in the 1980s, where the film truly stands out is in the cautionary tale it presents to its viewers. As the plot unfolds, the viewer witnesses each devastating blow the family takes, and just as things look to be improving, the worst is still in store. Throughout the film, tears and laughs are not uncommon.
The film, set in the 1980s, is a time capsule on film. Perhaps the most recognizable aspect of the film’s 80s touch is found in the movie’s costume design. Everything from big hair to complete denim outfits are standard and brings the viewer further into the experience. Another trace of the past is found in the film’s soundtrack, a collection of songs ranging from Blue Oyster Cult to Led Zeppelin, sure to excite any classic rock fan. Along with classic editions, “Live That Way Forever,” a song written originally for the film, serves as a nod to 80s pop music and the cheesy backbone of the era’s most notorious blockbusters.
The Von Erichs, having grown up in Lake Dallas, Texas, were the golden boys of the state in the 1980s, gradually becoming the most famous men in the Lone Star state by 1990, so it is only fitting that the movie paid homage to the area through its stunning cinematography. Throughout the film, numerous breathtaking shots help illustrate the world the Von Erichs inhabited. Along with granting a look into the past, the film’s cinematography lends itself to the feeling of loss, creating a melancholic view of a world that no longer exists.
The Iron Claw finds its most substantial footing in its most crucial area: acting. A career-defining performance from Zac Efron, who plays a man utterly devoid of emotion in the most emotional way possible, adds to the film’s connection to its audience. Another performance that helps the film stand out is that of Holt McCalley, playing the Von Erich patron, who creates a character as equally powerful as he is detestable. These performances combine to create a dynamic that highlights the film’s heartbreaking plot while creating an entertaining viewing experience.
The Iron Claw was released to positive reviews on December 22, 2023, receiving an 89% on Rotten Tomatoes. The film can be found on Max, along with all other recent A24 releases.
