The Iron Claw

This family drama follows the real life tribulations of the Von Erich family, who established a wrestling dynasty in the 70s and 80s.

Brothers Kevin, Kerry, David, and Mike Von Erich follow their father Fritz’s footsteps by entering the highly competitive world of professional wrestling. Doubling as the boys’ coach, an emotionally distant Fritz places heavy expectations on his sons, a burden under which they all struggle. Despite notable successes inside the ring, they experience personal tragedies outside it, leading Kevin to believe their family is cursed.

Zac Efron and Jeremy Allen White (The Bear) lead an ensemble of strong performances, giving dedication renditions as sons working tirelessly to earn the praise and approval of their domineering father. Though they endure the physical trials of the wrestling ring, it comes second to the psychological hardships of family demands.

“the kind of big, weepy, macho film that just doesn’t get made much anymore, a soaring power ballad that should prompt a lot of loud sniffling in the theater.” The Atlantic

“The film’s sensitive portrait of fraternal love is a match for modern classics Rain Man, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape or A River Runs Through It.” The Times

“With scalpel-like precision, the film exposes the agonies of fathers, sons, and brothers.” Slant Magazine

15: strong language, drug misuse, suicide