Telling a story that is already well-known can be quite risky, but ‘The Iron Claw’ is a truly amazing one. Directed by Sean Durkin, the film is about Von Erich and his family of professional wrestlers who are believed to be ‘cursed’. Well, not literally but figuratively – cursed with the tragedy of being ‘overly ambitious’.

Set in the 1980s-1990s, the film shows how the three sons of wrestling company owner Fritz Von Erich struggle to maintain and carry forward an immortal legacy in the highly competitive world of professional wrestling. They seek to achieve this at the personal cost of elusive happiness and family life. Yes, they remain immortal in memories, but their lives are not exactly ‘ideal’. It is extremely sad, to say the least.

Watch the trailer here:

Led by Zac Efron, who plays older brother Kevin, the film also features Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson, Maura Tierney, Stanley Simmons, Holt McCallany and Lily James. They bring a measured sensitivity to their performances without compromising the less-than-glorious side of chasing a legacy.

Director Durkin keeps the story serious by revolving it around family dynamics and brotherhood amidst the intense desire of ambitions. Interestingly, a film about professional wrestling, which is about masculinity on the surface, is quite tender and full of human emotions on the inside.

The production and sets take you back to the 1980s-early 90s, with beautiful locations and vintage camera-like textures. The era is captured perfectly in the pace and subtext. The film doesn’t shy away from showing toxic masculinity in its true form. There’s no glorification, just the facts. In fact, you feel sorry for them in those moments when you see their ‘American-caged’ dream mentality overpower their human instincts and take a toll on their mental health.

The way the game is used to tell the story of their struggle is seamless and one can see the effort to keep it authentic. It is tough and emotional, but doesn’t compromise on entertainment. There is enough action to feel the adrenaline rush.

Among others, Zac as Kevin is really brilliant. You root for Kevin more because Efron portrays him with sensitivity as well as tenacity. There’s no attempt at whitewashing. You see him for who he is – flawed but wanting to be a good brother, thoughtful but heartbreaking.

‘The Iron Claw’ is a touching film that makes you sad but also leaves you emotionally soothed at the same time. The film is now available on Lionsgate Play.