'Gripping' period drama that has fans 'sobbing' is now streaming on Netflix

An epic period drama that tells the unique story of four brothers and their struggles has landed on Netflix. Fans have hailed the movie as "gripping" and it has even brought some viewers to tears.

The Iron Claw is a 2023 biographical sports drama film written and directed by Sean Durkin about the Von Erichs, a family of professional wrestlers who are "cursed" by tragedy. The film stars Zac Efron as Kevin Von Erich alongside Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson, Maura Tierney, Stanley Simons, Holt McCallany, and Lily James as other members of the family. The title comes from the "Iron Claw," an in-ring signature move of the Von Erichs, which takes on thematic resonance within the film.

The film's synopsis reads: "The Iron Claw tells the story of the Von Erich brothers as they make history in the highly competitive world of professional wrestling in the early 1980s. Through tragedy and triumph, the brothers seek larger-than-life immortality on the biggest stage in sports."

The film has received widespread praise and its 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes reflects that. The critics consensus on the website states: "Powerfully acted and profoundly sad, The Iron Claw honors its fact-based story with a dramatisation whose compassionate exploration of family ties is just as hard-hitting as its action in the wrestling ring."

One critic labelled the film "gripping", while another said it was a "modern masterpiece".

The performances of the cast have been highlighted within the audience reviews frequently. One stated: "Great performances all around. Thoughtful and emotional depiction of a real life story."

Another said: "What a movie! Cried a few times. Zach Efron played a blinder. His talents have always been over shadowed by his looks. I can remember when I first seen him really flex his acting talents in Charlie St cloud. I hope he takes on more roles like this. Absolute must watch."

A third said it brought them to tears, adding: "I've never really understood bor been into wrestling, but oh my gosh, this movie kept me engaged and excited for the wrestling. The acting was phenomenal and everything about this movie was beautiful and heartbreaking. I cried for the last 20 minutes. Sobbing, snot and all. I recommend going to see it!"

Iron Claw is available to stream on Netflix, right now.