The Iron Claw review: Unleashing the Devastating Curse

A family tragedy that defies all logic and rational thinking has typically been portrayed on shows like The Jerry Springer Show. However, this year, The Iron Claw proves that not only can the worst harm the innocent, but that this harsh truth can be skillfully turned into fiction.

For those unfamiliar with WWE matches, a wrestling biopic may not seem like a good fit for the big screen. Despite the fact that a High School Musical teen-turned-beefcake stars in the leading role, The Iron Claw lacks a sense of depth and satisfaction for new viewers. This is its fatal allure, as it is able to emotionally impact the audience without them even realizing it.

Watching The Iron Claw is an incredibly intense experience, especially for wrestling fans already familiar with the tragic history of the Von Erichs. The collaboration between Lionsgate and A24 has produced a fictional portrayal that not only respects the true story, but also intensifies its emotional impact. This film is on track to become one of the top releases of 2023, and for good reason.

In the 1980s, it was widely believed that the Von Erichs were plagued by a family curse when they started performing under their old family name. However, A24's adaptation tells a different story, suggesting a different kind of tragedy moving through the family, with father figure Fritz (played by Holt McCallany) handling the God-fearing father role with remarkable nuance.

Zac Efron at an all-time best

Approaching The Iron Claw completely blind of knowledge might be the best approach – as there's a lot to unravel in its truth. With Fritz as the intimidating patriarch, sons Kevin (Zac Efron), David (Harris Dickinson), Kerry (Jeremy Allen White), and Mike (Stanley Simons) are each initiated into the ring, regardless of the personal cost. Throughout the brothers’ lives, this becomes a test of physical and mental agility, with the odds often stacked against them.

The Von Erich brothers quickly realize that personal fulfillment is never an option, as their father constantly reminds them that they can move up or down in favoritism. Kevin, in particular, bears the brunt of his father's ever-changing emotions and has opportunities taken away from him, despite his hard work. His ultimate loss is the ability to spend time with his brothers.

Director Sean Durkin skillfully handles sensitive material without exploiting it. The stakes continue to rise as Kevin's personal anguish escalates. The overwhelming devastation envelops the audience, culminating in the movie's final scenes. The Von Erich story is truly unique from beginning to end.

Accuracy leaves food for thought

A24/Lionsgate

The Von Erichs take center stage in the performances, with Zac Efron delivering a career-defining portrayal of Kevin, and Harris Dickinson and Jeremy Allen White bringing their own brand of heartbreak as David and Kerry. The cast embodies the Von Erich spirit, emphasizing brotherhood and family. Tragedy is portrayed with experimental grace, and the brothers confront it head-on.

The stylistic choices of The Iron Claw anchor the Von Erich story in the 1980s, with edit cuts and effects transporting viewers to that era. The soundtrack further enhances the nostalgic feel, and director Durkin takes creative risks in presenting the truth, demonstrating that creativity has a place in biopics alongside accuracy.

However, that doesn’t indicate that certain choices prevent The Iron Claw from achieving perfection. Wrestling enthusiasts are aware that one of the Von Erich brothers – Chris – has been entirely omitted from their story, with the full details of the brothers' lives not fully depicted. Perhaps there was a concern that too much tragedy would push the fictional portrayal into melodrama, despite the harsh reality. Nevertheless, these omissions inevitably have a slightly muted impact.

The Iron Claw review score: 4/5

Immerse yourself in the Von Erich story and prepare for The Iron Claw, a film that should not be overlooked. Despite the heartbreaking events that unfold, making it through the movie leaves viewers feeling enriched and fulfilled.

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Editor's P/S

As a wrestling fan, I was eagerly anticipating the release of "The Iron Claw," a film that delves into the tragic story of the Von Erich family. The movie's portrayal of the family's struggles and the devastating curse that seemed to follow them was both captivating and emotionally charged. Zac Efron's performance as Kevin Von Erich was particularly noteworthy, as he brought depth and nuance to a character grappling with personal anguish and the weight of his family's legacy.

While the film effectively captured the essence of the Von Erichs' story, I couldn't help but feel that certain aspects were glossed over or omitted entirely. The absence of Chris Von Erich, one of the brothers who played a significant role in the family's history, was a notable omission. Additionally, the film's portrayal of the family's personal lives felt somewhat superficial, leaving me wanting more insight into their individual struggles and relationships. Despite these shortcomings, "The Iron Claw" remains a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of a tragic chapter in wrestling history.