The official trailer for ‘The Iron Claw’ has been released, featuring Zac Efron and Jeremy Allen White as brothers who made history in the world of professional wrestling. The film, based on the true story of the Von Erich family, is set to hit theaters on December 22.
The Von Erich Legacy
The film follows the lives and careers of the Von Erich brothers, who were trained and coached by their father Fritz Von Erich, a legendary wrestler and promoter. The brothers, Kevin, Kerry, David, and Mike, rose to fame in the early 1980s as they dominated the wrestling scene in Texas and beyond. They were known for their athletic skills, charisma, and signature move, the iron claw.
However, the family also faced a series of tragedies and hardships, as they struggled with injuries, drug abuse, mental health issues, and the deaths of several members. The film explores the bond between the brothers, as well as their relationship with their father, who was both a mentor and a tyrant.
The Cast and Crew
Zac Efron stars as Kevin Von Erich, the oldest and only surviving brother of the family. Efron is best known for his roles in High School Musical, The Greatest Showman, and Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile. Jeremy Allen White plays Kerry Von Erich, the middle brother and the father’s favorite. White is known for his role as Lip Gallagher in Shameless.
The film also features Harris Dickinson as David Von Erich, Stanley Simons as Mike Von Erich, Holt McCallany as Fritz Von Erich, Maura Tierney as Doris Adkisson (the mother of the brothers), and Lily James as Pam Adkisson (Kevin’s wife).
The film is written and directed by Sean Durkin, who previously helmed Martha Marcy May Marlene and The Nest. The film is produced by A24, the studio behind acclaimed films such as Moonlight, Lady Bird, Uncut Gems, and Minari.
The Trailer
The trailer for ‘The Iron Claw’ showcases the highs and lows of the Von Erich family saga. It features scenes of the brothers in action in the ring, as well as their personal struggles and conflicts. It also highlights the performances of Efron and White, who underwent physical transformations to portray the muscular wrestlers.
The trailer also features narration from Kevin Von Erich, who reflects on his family’s legacy and curse. “Ever since I was a child, people said my family was cursed. Mom tried to protect us with God. Pop tried to protect us with wrestling. He said if we were the toughest, strongest, nothing could ever hurt us. I believed him. We all did,” he says.
The trailer ends with a dramatic shot of Kevin holding his brother Kerry in his arms, as he delivers a powerful line: “We’re not cursed. We’re blessed.”
You can watch the trailer here.
