"The Iron Claw": A Wrestling Movie That Leaves No Winners

"The Iron Claw," directed by Sean Durkin, is a family drama inspired by the real-life story of the Von Erich wrestling dynasty. The film explores the rise and fall of the Von Erichs, chronicling their rigid upbringing, substance abuse issues, and self-described curses. While the movie focuses on the evolution of Zac Efron's character beyond the wrestling-obsessed life his father expected of him, it also delves into the tragic history of the family. Durkin, a lifelong wrestling fan, aimed to capture the mythical nature of the Von Erichs' story and the physical toll of wrestling. Former pro wrestler Chavo Guerrero Jr. was hired to choreograph the realistic ring action, and the actors performed most of their own stunts.