A24's "The Iron Claw"

Professional wrestling has always confused me. Growing up in a family of competitive wrestlers (the ones who wear the singlets and head gear), I always saw wrestling as "fake" and confusing. I had briefly heard of the Von Erich name in passing, yet never had I put in the time to learn about their tragic story. A24 and director Sean Durkin did however.

Our story follows the life of Kevin Von Erich, played by Zac Efron. Kevin is one of 5 brothers, with the oldest having died at a young age. His newfound role as older brother puts him in the spotlight of his fathers business, the WCC.

The story drives itself upon the fundamental downfall of the Von Erich's: their curse. Each family member faces this curse in their own manner: David is to die from a ruptured intestine; Mike is to battle his fathers wishes for him to be a WWC star, ending in his suicide; Kerry is to battle with his jealousy towards his brother Kevin, as well as the loss of his leg in a motorcycle accident that fuels his eventual suicide; and Kevin is to watch as his brothers all fall to the curse of the Von Erich's.

What makes this film so captivating is its incredible acting performances. Zac Efron plays the role of a "man who can't cry," driving the audience to feel his pain that he can't have. It's not until the very end of the movie does Zac finally shed tears– a purposeful moment intended by the director.

With themes of regret, love, and violence, this film explores how toxic masculinity and ostensible "tough-love" can destroy the mind of a youth, and advocates for the feelings of men around the world who feel like they may not be able to cry.

So what do I rate it on my meter?

4.1 / 5