‘The Iron Claw’ – The Triumphant & Tragic Story of the Von Erich Wrestling Dynasty
The Von Erich family is wrestling royalty, but talent and titles are only part of it. The Iron Claw aims to tell the whole story.
The Von Erich Family
Long-time wrestling fans are familiar with the family, their storied rise, and the tragedies that befell them. The patriarch, Fritz, was a top star in the National Wrestling Alliance. He was also a big part of Japanese Wrestling, where he earned the moniker ‘Tetsu no Tsume’ or ‘The Iron Claw.’ He retired from the ring in 1982, but that wasn’t the end of his career.
He took over World Class Championship Wrestling and the Dallas Sportatorium in the late 1960s – both he used to help promote his sons into legendary careers.
Fritz became the boys’ coach in the mid-1970s, turning Kerry, Mike, and David into stars that would go on to be part of one of the most violent rivalries in wrestling, earn WWF titles, and feud with Ric Flair. Outside of the ring was another story. Glory came at a cost.
By 1991, four of the five that entered the ring were dead.
The Iron Claw – First Look
It’s surprising that this is the first time the family’s tragic story has been adapted. This first trailer reveals some beautifully shot matches, as well as what appears to be a sensitive look at the brothers’ lives that doesn’t take their careers, hardships, or deaths lightly.
The Iron Claw Cast & Details
The film is from writer/director Sean Durkin. Starring Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson, Maura Tierney, Stanley Simons, with Holt McCallany and Lily James.
The Von Erich family becomes a dynasty of professional wrestlers who make history, but a series of tragic events tests their strength and spirit.
The Iron Claw arrives in theaters on December 22.
