The Iron Claw
By Natalie McCarty
There are four films that have truly left their mark on me, shaping who I am today. La La Land kicked off this transformative journey in 2016, urging me to chase my dreams while also recognizing when it’s time to let go. It highlighted the profound impact of connections with others — how people, especially romantic partners, serve as mirrors reflecting our lives. Whether they stay for a reason, a season, or a lifetime, each relationship contributes to our growth, providing new tools, outlooks, and perspectives on life.
In 2019, Sound of Metal became my guide to embracing life, especially when faced with adversity. It emphasized the importance of finding stillness and being present in the midst of life’s noise.
Then, in 2023, Aftersun delved into the depths of my emotions, reopening wounds I thought were healed. The film became a powerful portal, stirring up nostalgia, memories, reflections, and childhood ruminations that unearthed something truly special.
Most recently, just a few days into 2024, The Iron Claw emerged as a catalyst for confronting moments, memories, hurdles, and disappointments I had yet to face. It provided a cathartic and freeing space to process bits of grief, offering me the courage and time to navigate my own life’s challenges. Each of these films has been a chapter in my personal evolution, each contributing its unique lessons and insights.
Surprisingly, The Iron Claw not only exceeded my expectations but also earned a coveted spot among my top four favorite films — an honor I don’t bestow lightly. While the initial teaser trailer, featuring a stellar cast and the promise of an exceptional soundtrack, had piqued my interest, I couldn’t be certain the film would live up to the hype.
To my delight, I couldn’t have been more wrong. The Iron Claw surpassed all doubts, delivering an experience that went beyond what I had imagined.
Audiences came into this film with certain expectations: brotherhood, intense fights, and familial tension. They braced themselves for the presence of the emotionally abusive father and the self-absorbed mother. The anticipation was high for the adrenaline-pumping fighting sequences. However, what caught everyone off guard was the overwhelming undercurrent of grief — the profound sense of loss and total devastation that the film brought to the forefront.
Even for those familiar with the Von Erich family, the emotional journey unfolded unexpectedly, exposing audiences to the raw, unfiltered realities woven into the narrative. Without giving away spoilers, the film consistently defied expectations. Just when you believed it couldn’t possibly get any worse, it did. And when you thought the last tragedy had unfolded for these unfortunate boys, there was more.
I must admit that the anxiety I felt watching this film was reminiscent of watching Damien Chazelle’s Whiplash, to put it in perspective.
The reason I found myself at the edge of my seat goes beyond empathy; I resonated deeply with the Von Erich boys. While our problems are vastly different, there’s a common thread tying us together — a shared passion and an unyielding willingness to do whatever it takes to achieve greatness and live life to the fullest. The hustle, the grind, pushing limits to the max, performing, strategizing, and marketing oneself — all of these elements struck a chord with me in a way that felt eerily familiar.
Although I’m not a professional wrestler, I am an ambitious publicist and CEO. It often feels like I’m in my own ring, navigating the challenges, and striving for success. The film served as a poignant reminder of the parallels between their journey and mine, creating a connection that heightened the emotional intensity of the experience.
While I could delve into the intricacies of the striking cinematography, the brilliant use of editing and sound, the perfect montage set to Rush’s “Tom Sawyer,” the stunning original score, the beautiful performances, and the smart use of camera angles, I believe it’s best for you to experience these elements firsthand.
What I can highlight, however, is the profound plot centered around Kevin Von Erich’s survival, driven by his unwavering love for his family. Beyond the dynamics with his brothers, it’s his relationship with his wife and kids (apologies for the spoiler) that becomes a source of healing. This narrative arc explores the breaking of patterns and the transformative power of love and affection emanating from a place of innocence.
For me, this aspect was particularly poignant as I saw reflections of myself in Kevin. Like him, I identify as ambitious, a natural leader, and a caretaker, often dealt an unfair hand by life. His hustle and drive resonated with my own experiences, making his disappointments, shortcomings, and oversights feel all the more familiar. It created a connection that added a layer of personal depth to the narrative.
The widespread criticism of this film revolves around its portrayal of the tortured and cursed Von Erich family, particularly the omission of major details, such as the existence and death of a sixth brother and its impact on the family dynamic. While I acknowledge this critique, I would argue that the film’s strength lies in its departure from a strict biopic format. Instead of presenting a direct retelling of historical events, it takes inspiration from the true story and weaves it into a beautiful narrative.
This departure, I believe, is what contributes to the film’s success, beauty, and incredible storytelling. By choosing to craft a narrative inspired by real events rather than strictly adhering to a biographical account, the film allows for a more artistic and emotionally resonant exploration of the Von Erich family’s struggles. It’s this creative approach that sets the film apart and makes it a compelling piece of cinema.
For at the end of the day, isn’t that what it’s all about? A good movie goes beyond merely distracting you from your own world for a few hours; it invites you into a world of its own, whether it mirrors yours or presents something entirely different. The mark of a great film is its ability to articulate a message of human connection, resonating with the audience on a deeper level. It’s about the shared experiences, emotions, and insights that transcend the screen, creating a lasting impact that extends beyond the runtime.
The Iron Claw accomplishes exactly that. It immerses you in a world that might not be your own, yet it holds up a mirror to your life. Cathartic, beautiful, touching, and poignant, this film elicits a range of emotions that resonate deeply. It goes beyond mere storytelling, becoming a vessel for personal reflection and connection. I share your sentiment, and I’m with you in defending this film forever. It’s a testament to the power of cinema to touch our souls and leave an indelible mark on our hearts.
