Have you ever seen a movie and instantly wanted to watch it again? Sean Durkin’s ‘The Iron Claw’ is a film which makes you feel every single emotion in the book and want to experience it all over again.
The film is based on a true story about the Von Erich family, the greatest family in wrestling. The storyline follows four brothers who constantly try to please their father, while dealing with troubles of their own. Now this film is not just a wrestling movie, it is a tragedy. Four brothers begin the movie but only one ends it.
While doing some research for this film, I found out that there were actually six brothers total, five who died. The reason they only picked four brothers is because they did not want the film to seem unrealistic with how tragic the events were. I find this absolutely heartbreaking since the movie is already so upsetting.
Zac Efron gave an amazing performance as Kevin Von Erich, the second oldest brother. He makes you feel the tragedy through his emotions that never show. I also found this film as a take on toxic masculinity.
Throughout the film, the brothers only had each other to confide in. When each brother passes away, they do not cry nor show any emotion. It is only until the end when Kevin watches his own children, that he allows himself to cry about his loss. I found this the most powerful part of the film. He even states men do not cry and apologizes to his children for seeing their father like that.
The film tackles mental health as well and how some men feel as if they can not share their emotions without being ridiculed. I think this film could serve as a public service announcement about men’s mental health, as much as it serves as a wrestling movie.
While the film has a bittersweet ending, showing what the real Kevin Von Erich is up to, I still found myself crying my heart out. ‘The Iron Claw’ is one of those films where you go into the movie with a full box of tissues, and leave with it empty. This film rips your heart out and does not give it back. If you have a sibling at home, give them a call.
I was lucky to watch this film at the Putnam Theater courtesy of the KSC Film Society. Up next is a mind twister that has been gaining a lot of popularity. Starring Barry Keoghan and Jacob Elordi, the next film is “Saltburn.” Until next time, go hug your family.
Mariah Rodriguez-Costa can be contacted at
Mariah.Rodriguez-Costa@keene.edu
