Inspired by a true story, “The Iron Claw” recounts the “curse” of the Von Erich brothers — Kevin (Zac Efron), Kerry (Jeremy Allen White), David (Harris Dickinson) and Mike (Stanley Simons) — who wrestled their way to fame (and misfortune) in the 1980s. The bond between the brothers is close. Dad Fritz (Holt McCallany), a former wrestler whose signature move was the “iron claw,” lets his sons sort out their problems on their own. He is single-mindedly focused on what they need to do to earn the World Heavyweight Championship title.
Writer/Director Sean Durkin (“Martha Marcy May Marlene”) immerses viewers in the world of wrestling, featuring several bouts that convey the real pain of body slams and theatrics of the sport. But “The Iron Claw” is really about the toxic masculinity of Fritz, who lets his sons suffer more outside of the ring. The family experiences a series of tragedies that test their toughness, strength and success.
