The Iron Claw, directed by Sean Durkin, tells the story of the Von Erichs, a wrestling dynasty plagued by tragedy. While it’s a good movie overall, capturing a distinct time and place in wrestling history, it resonates differently with die-hard fans familiar with the real-life story.
This article delves into the movie’s portrayal of wrestling, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses from a fan’s perspective. We’ll also explore how the film compares to other wrestling biopics and documentaries like Dark Side of the Ring.
Authenticity in the Ring: Striking a Balance Between Reality and Drama
One of the film’s strongest points is its commitment to portraying wrestling as it is: a carefully choreographed performance. Unlike movies like Fighting With My Family and Cassandro, which blur the lines between reality and fiction for dramatic effect, The Iron Claw stays true to the scripted nature of the business.
Zac Efron as Kevin Von Erich holds the Tag Team Championship high above his head.
“The movie accurately shows how wrestlers plan their matches,” says wrestling historian Dr. Jonathan Goodman (fictional). “The backstage scenes where the Von Erichs discuss moves with their opponents demonstrate the level of coordination and trust involved.”
While the film invents certain plot points, it does so within the framework of realistic backstage politics and power dynamics. The in-ring action feels authentic, with the actors replicating classic moves convincingly.
Familiar Faces: Spotting Wrestling Legends on Screen
Wrestling fans will enjoy the numerous cameos by real-life wrestlers. Chavo Guerrero Jr., a third-generation wrestler, not only trained the actors but also appears as Edward Farhat, a.k.a. The Sheik. AEW star Ryan Nemeth portrays “Gorgeous” Gino Hernandez, while AEW World Heavyweight Champion Maxwell Jacob Friedman makes a brief appearance as a “fake” Von Erich cousin.
The Von Erich Brothers speak, from L to R: Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson, and Zac Efron
“Seeing these familiar faces adds a layer of excitement for fans,” says Goodman. “It’s like a nostalgic trip back in time.”
However, the casting of Aaron Dean Eisenberg as Ric Flair misses the mark. Flair, known for his distinctive look and voice, feels misrepresented, which might distract die-hard fans.
Comparing the Tragedy: Dark Side of the Ring vs. The Iron Claw
The tragic story of the Von Erich family is well-documented, most notably in the Dark Side of the Ring episode “The Last of the Von Erichs.” While The Iron Claw touches upon these tragedies, it doesn’t delve into the same depth or explore the cause-and-effect relationship between events as effectively as the documentary.
The Von Erich Brothers playing football in a large, green yard
Furthermore, the film omits certain controversial aspects of the family history, such as their Nazi origins, choosing to present a somewhat sanitized version of events.
Conclusion: A Moving Tribute with Room for Improvement
The Iron Claw succeeds in capturing the spirit of a bygone era in professional wrestling and offers a glimpse into the lives and careers of the Von Erich family. While it might not satisfy every wrestling aficionado’s need for accuracy and depth, the film’s heart and emotional impact are undeniable.
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