The Iron Claw, directed by Sean Durkin, is a poignant biopic exploring brotherhood, grief and toxicity within the professional wrestling industry. Set against the backdrop of the legendary Von Erich wrestling family, the film delves into the highs and lows of their lives both inside and outside the ring.

The 1980s were a pivotal era for professional wrestling, particularly in North America, with the rise of the World Wrestling Association (now WWE) and the American Wrestling Association (AWA). Whilst the 1980s saw growth in popularity for wrestling, it was punctuated by several forms of toxicity within the industry. Pro-wrestling in the 80s was rife with exploitative contracts, drug abuse and dangerous matches. This took a significant toll on both the physical and mental health of wrestlers.

After David’s death, the film’s atmosphere takes on something heavier and darker. The way grief is depicted in the film is not simple. It twists and turns, embedding itself into the family, gradually trickling its way down the brothers. Fritz Von Erich is stoic in how he handles the loss of his son(s), leaving the brothers to fight through their grief with each other. Kevin battles with the “Von Erich curse”, distancing himself from his family, Mike and Kerry struggle with living under Kevin’s shadow whilst coming to terms with their brother’s death.

There was a fifth Von Erich brother, Chris, who was not written into the film. He was the youngest and also wrestled, however he grappled with the pressure of living up to his brothers’ success due to his health. He killed himself at 21. In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Durkin stated “There was a repetition to it, and it was one more tragedy that the film couldn’t really withstand…” This was met with some criticism with some believing that it erased Chris Von Erich’s legacy; others defended Durkin’s decision, agreeing that it would weigh down the film in terms of the atmosphere and story. Should creative liberties be taken when it comes to making a biopic? It raises questions about the ethical boundaries of biographical storytelling. How much should directors be allowed to cut out or change when it comes to depicting real life stories on the big screen?

Zac Efron shines in the role of Kevin Von Erich; although the High School Musical trilogy is iconic and a marker of our childhoods, Efron is unrecognisable in this. He’s almost effortless in his portrayal of Kevin Von Erich. Harris Dickinson and Jeremy Allen White also kill it playing David Von Erich and Kerry Von Erich respectively.

I have to give you a warning if you’ve not seen it yet, it’s certainly not an easy watch. Me and my friends were reduced to tears by the end of it! The cinematography is amazing and the score is absolutely heart wrenching where it needs to be. If you’ve not yet seen it, I’d give it a go – it’s a devastating story but one that’s well worth the watch.

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