The Iron Claw: Unveiling the Gripping Tale of Zac Efron and Jeremy Allen White's Sports Drama
In the sports drama 'The Iron Claw', Zac Efron and Jeremy Allen White portray real-life wrestling brothers Kevin and Kerry Von Erich This highly anticipated film explores their journey as pro wrestlers, showcasing their physical transformations and an ensemble cast Discover the stars' thoughts, the real Kevin Von Erich's perspective, and the release date of 'The Iron Claw'
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Zac Efron fans will finally get to witness the purpose behind his bowl cut and muscular build.
In October 2022, the actor was captured on camera, appearing completely changed, while shooting for the sports drama film, The Iron Claw. A24 recently revealed that the movie will be released in theaters across the country in December, after a nine-month wait.
Scroll down for all the details we have about The Iron Claw thus far, featuring Efron in the role of real-life pro wrestler Kevin Von Erich. Known for their contributions to the sport during the 1980s, his brothers Kerry, David, and Mike will be portrayed by Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson, and Stanley Simons, respectively.
What Is ‘The Iron Claw’ About?
The Von Erich family, a renowned pro wrestling dynasty led by Fritz Von Erich (Holt McCallany) and his sons, takes center stage in this gripping A24 film. However, their journey is marred by a string of tragic events that occurred beyond the wrestling ring, giving rise to the infamous "Von Erich curse."
Sean Durkin, best known for directing the films Martha Marcy May Marlene and The Nest, wrote and directed the upcoming drama.
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How Did Zac Efron and Jeremy Allen White Change Their Appearances for ‘The Iron Claw’?
In November 2022, White told GQ that he was attempting to put on 40 pounds of muscle to portray Kerry.
Following his casting, Efron personally reached out to the Bear star, expressing his appreciation through a heartfelt note: "Get training, eat well, maintain your current efforts, stay dedicated." A24's Twitter account also unveiled an image from the film during that particular month, showcasing a robust Efron delivering a forceful kick to his opponent in the boxing ring.
Who Else Stars In ‘The Iron Claw’?
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Lily James, who portrays Pam, Efron's wife, couldn't help but praise his "extraordinary" performance at the BAFTA Film Awards in February, as she spoke to reporters on the red carpet. Maura Tierney, on the other hand, takes on the role of Doris, the Von Erich family patriarch.
“He’s really transformed,” she said after admitting that his “incredibly muscly” physique was a bit “distracting.”
What Have ‘The Iron Claw’ Stars Said About the Film?
During a GQ interview in November 2022, White highlighted the similarities between his characters in The Iron Claw and The Bear. Explaining that both of them experience a sense of displacement, he expressed that there is something innately human about never truly feeling like one's own person. White emphasized that regardless of whether it is within a biological family or not, all compelling narratives revolve around the themes of acceptance, belonging, and the desire to escape loneliness.
How Does the Real Kevin Von Erich Feel About ‘The Iron Claw’?
In a recent interview on the "Haus of Wrestling" podcast, Kevin, the sole surviving son of Fritz and the only Von Erich brother who didn't pass away at a young age, openly expressed his concerns about the film. He confessed that he had fears that the movie would depict his father and Kerry in a negative light.
But after his sons, Ross and Marshall, who are also involved in professional wrestling, visited the set to perform stunts, he began to feel more optimistic. "Sean Durkin reached out to me, and I have a gut feeling that this movie will be exceptional," he expressed. Furthermore, Kevin mentioned that his niece Hollie, the daughter of Kerry, had the chance to meet McCallany, who portrays the role of the family's patriarch, Fritz.
"When Hollie laid eyes on him, tears immediately welled up in her eyes. Her love for my dad was immense, and all the kids adored him," Kevin recalled. "As soon as the actor noticed Hollie's teary reaction, he too became overwhelmed with emotion. It was a powerful testament to the passion they were putting into this project, their genuine desire to create something remarkable. When you strive that hard, success is bound to follow. I'm eagerly anticipating the movie's release; I'm confident it will be exceptional."
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When Does ‘The Iron Claw’ Come Out?
The movie hits theaters nationwide on December 22, 2023.
