The first trailer has just been released for the upcoming sports drama “The Iron Claw”, starring famous actors Zac Efron and Jeremy Allen White. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Shawn Durkin, the movie follows the rises and falls of the influential von Earle wrestling family.
Two Tinseltown Stars Wrestle with Meaty Roles
Efron takes on the role of wrestling superstar Ken von Earle, known by fans as the Golden Warrior. Ken was part of the legendary von Earle wrestling dynasty, which included his brother Cerry von Earle, played by White.
The von Earle brothers competed in the heavyweight division and became fan favorites. Holt McCallany joins the cast as the brothers’ father Fritz von Earle, a three-time world champion wrestler.
From Light-hearted Roles to Hard-Hitting Biopic
To prepare for their roles, Efron and White both packed on pounds of muscle through intense gym training. Photos leaked online showcasing Efron’s muscular physique and vintage haircut generated lots of buzz on social media.
White even aimed to gain 40 pounds for the part. Their physical transformations prove their dedication to portraying the iconic wrestlers authentically.
While Efron rose to fame in musicals and comedies, this marks his continued foray into serious dramatic biopics following a chilling turn as serial killer Ted Bundy.
Meanwhile, White charmed television audiences as both a Gallagher brother on “Shameless” and a talented young chef in “The Bear.” Their pedigrees demonstrate remarkable acting range.
Capturing the Highs and Lows of the von Earles
Durkin has earned acclaim for directing emotionally intense dramas like “The Nest” and “Martha Marcy May Marlene.” In “The Iron Claw,” he tackles the triumphs and traumas of the von Earles, as five of the six von Earle brothers died young, including three by suicide.
Produced by A24, BBC Films, House Productions, and Access Entertainment, “The Iron Claw” hits theatres this winter on December 22. With its A-list cast and captivating true story, the film looks to be a gripping watch.
