This movie goes the life of the famous wrestling family the Von Erichs. The movie focuses on Kevin Von Erich. This movies deals with many emotions. The many highs and lows of being a professional wrestler. This movie deals with the pressure Kevin’s father puts on him and his brothers to be great. I didn’t know what to expect from this movie. I recognized the name Von Erich, but I didn’t know their story. My Mother tells stories about the only time they would travel far was to see the Von Erichs wrestle in Texas.
The bond between brothers is a major theme of this movie. These brothers love each other and will do anything for each other. Anyone with siblings can relate to the relationship the Von Erichs have.
Another major theme is Pressure from the father for his sons become greater than he was. This pressure leads to great tragedy throughout the film. The father seems to not care how his boys are doing as long as they are successful at doing it. The father very clearly has favorites. In one scene he lists them out in order and says the order is subject to change.
A third major theme of the movie is dealing with loss. The Von Erich family has many tragedy’s fall upon them. they believe the Von Erich name is cursed. If you know the story going in you know what to expect.
The casting of Zack Efron was great. He got absolutely jacked for this movie. He is almost unrecognizable. This is the first serious role I have seen him in. From what I’ve scene in the behind the scenes leading up to the movie he spent a lot of time to learn about being in the ring. He looks very natural in the wrestling sequences.
Overall The Iron Claw is a very well put together film. It really drives certain points home very well. I enjoyed learning about this family’s story. I went into this movie being a current wrestling fan. If you enjoy wrestling or Biopic movies this one is for you.