The Iron Claw (2023)

The Iron Claw covers so much ground that a couple of the Von Erich brothers barely get room to be people before the story moves on. It doesn’t sink a movie this big-hearted. Holt McCallany plays Fritz, a Texas wrestling promoter who pushes his boys toward the world title he never won. Zac Efron is Kevin, the big brother who carries everyone, and it’s the best work of his career: a giant frame with a frightened kid’s eyes. Jeremy Allen White and Harris Dickinson are excellent as Kerry and David, and Maura Tierney says a lot with very little. The ring scenes have real snap, especially the montage where the brothers discover their anthem, Tom Sawyer. Sean Durkin treats the family’s losses with care and never milks them. It holds an 89% on Rotten Tomatoes. An 8.6 because the love between these brothers hits harder than anything in the ring. $59.54 says you look up old footage of the real Von Erich brothers tonight and watch it with a lump in your throat.

What works: Zac Efron gives a career-best performance, and the bond between the brothers feels warm, real and lived in.

What doesn’t: Rushing through so many years leaves some of the brothers underwritten, and the film never fully digs into why the family is so driven.

Who it’s for: Anyone who loves a sincere family drama, wrestling fans or not, as long as they bring tissues.