The Iron Claw Review
The Von Erichs were/are wrestling royalty. The Patriarch Fritz Von Erich was the originator of the titular move. Those who know wrestling know how tragic their story is, and I’m surprised it took this to make a film about them.
Sean Durkin wrote and directed this adaptation of the Von Erich story. It is his third feature film and a major step up from his previous works. His two previous works are cold and distant.
It made me hesitant about this film because of the subject matter. Since I didn’t grow up a wrestling fan I didn’t know anything about the Von Erichs, but I knew their story was tragic.
I wasn’t sure if he’d have the touch to make this dreary subject matter watchable. However, I am here to report that not only did he nail it, he made one of the best films of the year.
It’s evident this story is important to Sean, it’s told with respect. He also understands when to deploy the emotional heart of the film to have maximum effect.
It’s hard to talk about how this film works so well, in that aspect, without spoilers. I know this is a true story but many will be like me and know nothing about this story.
Also, Sean takes some liberties. Like leaving out the youngest son, he understood that telling the full true story would be like putting a hat on a hat. It’d be too much for audiences.
Sean’s understanding of emotional deployment also works for Zac Efron giving a career-best performance.
Because of their Dad, all the Von Erich sons are not allowed to show emotion, especially sadness. So for much of the film, Zac’s Kevin Von Erich is a stone wall.
It would come off as flat if it were not for his final scene. In the wrong hands, his final scene would go over the top. But Zac is pitch-perfect, letting out everything he had been holding in for 2-hours.
As well as breaking the cycle for his sons. It’s a beautiful note to end on that could’ve gone wrong with another actor or director.
On the other side of the Von Erich coin is Holt McCallany as the patriarch Fritz Von Erich. In a cast of large muscled-up movie stars, Holt looms large over all of them.
His domineering presence is felt in every frame. It’s the kind of supporting performance that deserves to be praised at the Oscars but it may be a little too cold for voters.
The more likely supporting performance to be nominated is Jeremy Allen White as Kerry Von Erich. He is just as good as Holt but has a more empathetic role.
Like Zac, Jeremy has a beautiful moment towards the end of the film that will play to everyone’s heartstrings. The entire cast is brilliant and is the reason the SAG Ensemble award was created.
I don’t watch and have never watched wrestling. I did not expect to be writing a review on the film, yet here we are. This film is a powerhouse that will leave with you a lot to process.
Durkin’s writing and direction have come a long way. Zac, Holt, Jeremy, Harris, Maura, and Stanley Simons give some career-best performances.
4.5/5 Stars
