A24’s highly anticipated sports drama “The Iron Claw” is set to hit theaters on December 22, 2023, just in time for the holidays. Directed by Sean Durkin (“Martha Marcy May Marlene”), the film boasts an all-star cast including Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, and Harris Dickinson as the legendary Von Erich wrestling family.
“The Iron Claw” chronicles the rise and tragic fall of the Von Erich brothers – Kevin, Kerry, and David – who made a huge impact on professional wrestling in the 1980s. The film will follow the siblings as they seek fame and immortality in the hyper-competitive world of sports entertainment, all while dealing with family tragedy and their overbearing father Fritz Von Erich (Holt McCallany).
Efron, hot off his role in “The Greatest Beer Run Ever,” completely transforms into Kevin Von Erich, while Jeremy Allen White bulked up an astounding 40 pounds to play Kerry Von Erich. White described his intense diet and training regimen to gain the muscle, calling it “no way to live.” The two actors are joined by Harris Dickinson as David Von Erich, Maura Tierney as the Von Erich matriarch Doris, and Lily James as Kevin’s wife Pam.
A24 recently released a first look image of Efron, White, and Dickinson together in character, showing the actors looking nearly identical to the iconic wrestling trio. Earlier this year, a photo of Efron in full wrestling gear giving a stare down in the ring also went viral.
“The Iron Claw” promises to be an emotional and gritty look at the incredible highs and devastating lows of the Von Erich family. Their story made headlines in the 1980s as the brothers drew huge crowds and popularity, only to meet tragic ends one by one. The film will pull back the curtain on the pressure they faced from their father and examine the toll of life in the spotlight.
The drama is written and directed by Sean Durkin, best known for critically acclaimed films like “Martha Marcy May Marlene.” It is produced by A24, BBC Film, Access Entertainment, and House Productions. Top-level talent like Tessa Ross, Juliette Howell, and Angus Lamont are on board to produce.
Moviegoers and wrestling fans alike have December 22 circled on their calendars to see Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, and Harris Dickinson bring the Von Erichs’ incredible story to life on the big screen. “The Iron Claw” has all the makings of a powerful, emotional sports biopic that could contend this awards season.
A24 is clearly looking to tap into the current pro wrestling renaissance and appetite for stories about sports icons. If the buzz is any indication, “The Iron Claw” could body slam the box office and pin down some major Oscar nominations when it releases just in time for Christmas this year.
