The Iron Claw Blu-ray Review
“The Iron Claw” is an emotional biodrama.
Based on a true story, A24’s “The Iron Claw” revolves around the Von Erich family in the 70’s and 80’s. The Von Erichs, for those that are unaware, were a family that was deeply involved in the world of wrestling. Fritz Von Erich was a former wrestler turned owner of the World Class Championship Wrestling league who lives with his wife Doris and their 5 sons (Jack Jr., Kevin, Kerry, Mike and David). In reality, there were actually six sons (Chris being the other), but he was left out of the story for storytelling purposes. Both Kevin and David wrestle in the WCCW, Jack Jr. passed away at an early age, Mike is pursuing a music career and Kerry is a would be Olympian whose dreams are crushed due to the 1980 Olympics boycott. Eventually, both Kerry and Mike get into wrestling as well. A few of them even go on to face opponents in other bigger leagues. Alas, this family of athletes begins to endure tragic hardships after accidents, injuries, and mental health issues emerge. Moreover, Fritz’s methods of pushing his children to the limits to become wrestlers proves to have an effect on their mental states.
As someone with only a small knowledge of wrestling history, the triumphs and tragedies of the Von Erichs were unfamiliar to me. Enter writer/director Sean Durkin who was able to convey this emotional tale about family, brotherhood, toxic fatherhood, and wrestling in this cinematic sports biodrama. It’s safe to say there is nothing else like this story in the sports world. It’s a heartbreaking story of loss, but it’s also a powerful story about brothers chasing their dreams and achieving success. It’s a real roller coaster of emotions and, in truth, is a film that really encapsulates the complexities of life and family dynamics.
Zac Efron received a lot of attention for his transformative performance as Kevin Von Erich and deservedly so. The actor is primarily known for comedic parts, but he really flexes his acting muscles here. It’s the best performance of his career thus far. Rising star Jeremy Allen White (of “The Bear” fame) further proves why he’s a force to be reckoned with. He’s another actor with incredible range. Holt McCallany has always been an underrated actor. It’s nice to see him get such a prominent film role like this. Maura Tierney (Doris), Harris Dickinson (David), Lily James (Kevin’s wife Pam), and Stanley Simons (Mike) also deserve praise for their roles. It’s an impressive ensemble all around.
Video/Audio:
Presentation: 1.85:1 1080p. How does it look? The 70’s and 80’s color schemes really shine in hi-def.
Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? Expect a crisp 5.1 track that really comes alive when the soundtrack is blaring.
Extras:
* DVD copy
* Digital copy
* “The Iron Claw” theatrical trailer and other A24 trailers.
* A 21 minute “Cast And Crew Q&A” with Maura Tierney, Stanley Simons Holt McCallany, Jeremy Allen White, Zac Efron, Sean Durkin and Kevin Von Erich moderated Jenelle Riley from Variety
* “Brotherhood Is Forever: Making Iron Claw”- A half-hour making of featurette with interviews, film clips, discussions about the real life story and the project, and more.
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