‘The Iron Claw’: The Tragedy of The Von Erich Wrestling Legacy
Sean Durkin’s film ‘The Iron Claw’ delves into the tumultuous saga of the Von Erich family, a wrestling dynasty marred by hardship and the spectre of an ominous “curse.”
Named after the signature move of Fritz Von Erich, portrayed by Holt McCallany, the film captures the essence of this unmovable grip on the face, symbolizing the family’s struggles under financial pressure. Durkin, known for his enigmatic storytelling in films like ‘Martha Marcy May Marlene’ and ‘The Nest,’ now navigates the turbulent waters of 1980s Texas and the unravelling Von Erich lineage.
The narrative, framed by Kevin Von Erich (Zac Efron), the family’s second-oldest son and sole survivor of five brothers, introduces viewers to the world of professional wrestling championships. Efron’s portrayal of Kevin, uncomfortable in his skin, echoes the internal conflicts within the family, haunted by the fear that the alleged curse will manifest itself in their lives.
While Durkin’s previous works were characterized by intricate, non-linear storytelling, ‘The Iron Claw’ opts for a more straightforward approach. Despite a cast delivering committed performances, the film remains frustratingly opaque. The storyline unfolds against the backdrop of the Sportatorium mini-arena in Dallas, a gritty yet triumphant setting that adds depth to the campy dramatics of pre-WWE wrestling.
The initial scenes reveal the charm and genuine appeal that made the Von Erich brothers successful in the wrestling world. Harris Dickinson’s portrayal of David, Jeremy Allen White as Kerry, and Stanley Simons as Mike contributes to the vibrant portrayal of a renowned wrestling family. However, as financial pressures mount, the film takes a dark turn, transforming into a grim procession of tragedies that, despite their devastating nature, struggle to find emotional resonance within the film’s runtime.
Durkin skillfully presents the family curse as a blend of superstition, reality and a cover for mental illness in a predominantly male household. Yet, the film keeps the audience at a distance from the individual struggles of each brother, offering limited insight into their characters. Fritz Von Erich, played by McCallany, remains a hard and uncompromising figure, leaving the audience yearning for more depth.
The latter part of the film reflects the palpable emptiness and muted quality of the Von Erichs’ experiences, especially for Kevin, who finds himself increasingly alone. Efron’s portrayal captures the essence of a man without a compass, navigating the challenges of life without the anchor of family. The final scene, though poignant, leaves the viewer longing for a more profound exploration of this tragic narrative.
In ‘The Iron Claw,’ Durkin ventures into the complex terrain of family, fame, and the blurred lines of professional wrestling. While the film captures the essence of the Von Erichs’ struggles and losses, it leaves audiences grappling with the desire for a deeper, more intimate connection with the characters and the tragic legacy they carry.
