Warning: This article contains some spoilers forThe Iron Claw.
A24 is known for coming out with niche, innovative, and riskier films than their larger, more mainstream counterparts.The Iron Claw, which premiered in late-2023, fits with the reputation the studio has earned. It’s a biographical sports drama based on the Von Erich wrestling dynasty. Dubbed by some as “the Kennedys of wrestling,” this talented and successful family suffered a great amount of tragedy.Zac Efron playsthe eldest (surviving) brother, Kevin. Together with his brothers Kerry (Jeremy Allen White), David (Harris Dickinson), and Mike (Stanley Simons), and father Fritz (Holt McCallany), they strive to make names for themselves in the wrestling world.
It’s no secret that sports encourage masculinity in ways that can be rigid and outdated. Especially in a sport where overcoming physical harm to yourself and distributing as much harm to your opponent is the point. However,The Iron Clawapproaches sports and masculinity in ways that are quite unexpected.
The Iron Claw
Emphasis on Brotherhood
The relationship between the brothers is at the heart ofThe Iron Claw. Though the promotions emphasize the three showmen of the group — Kevin, Kerry, and David — their relationship with Mike is also important. When they eventually come together to perform in the ring, it brings about the electric energy promised by the teasers. However, it’s the quieter moments that give those flashier ones their weight. Fritz and the boys' mother, Doris, did everything they could to discourage emotions in their children, which makes the clear love the brothers share even more special.
Whether it be the conversation Kevin and David had on the bathroom floor, three of them chowing down burgers while crammed in a truck, or a heartbreaking phone call with Kerry, this aspect ofThe Iron Clawis important. Inmany sports films, viewers are invested in the outcome of an important game. That’s present here, but more so, it’s how these matches will impact the brothers' relationships. The love for each other trumped the love for the sport, a refreshing take in a sports movie.
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Lack of Romantic Experience
Viewers who value intense romantic relationships may find it lacking inThe Iron Claw. In fact, besides Kevin, the other brothers' relationships aren’t explored at all. We are introduced to Pam (Lily James), a young woman infatuated with Kevin. Normally,athletes in moviesare depicted as ladies' men, players, and a tad shallow. From their first meeting — and eventual first date — it’s clear Kevin is different. He is awkward, insecure, and lacks emotional intelligence.
Taking into account the Von Erichs' local celebrity status, it was even more surprising when Kevin and Pam get intimate for the first time, and viewers (and Pam) discover Kevin is a virgin. Because of how our society views masculinity and sexuality, it can be almost jarring when viewing a super muscular, emotionless guy like Kevin. This inclusion is evidence of why more narratives should normalize men with a range of romantic and sexual experiences. Additionally, the implication that Pamdidhave a prior sexual history, and it didn’t have to become a Plot Point, was a nice touch as well.
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Big Boys Do Cry
Fritz does not like to see his sons cry, even after a tragic death in the family. He has a “pull yourself up by your bootstraps” mentality. When Kevin takes a while getting up during a match, instead of empathy from his father, he gets scolded. When Mike is injured and doesn’t shake it off, there’s an intense look of embarrassment from Fritz. When David is concerned that he has hurt his brother’s feelings, Fritz tells him to worry about himself.
The brothers have instilled much of this messaging. It’s nice when their walls are lowered when they’re around each other, but even then, some of this toxic mentality leaks in. While the family as a whole is complex, this is truly Kevin’s story and viewers witness his transformation to accepting his emotions. As each new tragedy unfolds, we see Kevin’s resolve towards his father’s way of thinking is tested. He struggles with wanting to keep a brave face, while also feeling like the dam is getting ready to break. It helps that Pam is in his corner encouraging him to be vulnerable, but it’s ultimately Kevin himself who teaches him the lesson.
ThoughThe Iron Clawis set in the late-70s and early-80s, many of these ideas still exist today. However, the more we can bring attention to how harmful it is, the more progress can be made. Some critics believe that films that broach the subject of masculinity outright demonize all aspects of it. That’s not the case, and especially not here. The brothers stillembrace pro wrestling, being strong, ambitious, and other traditionally “masculine” traits. However, by the end, Kevin is unwilling to deny other parts of himself.The Iron Clawis now playing in theaters
