Why Rush’s Tom Sawyer Is The Perfect Song For The Von Erichs In The Iron Claw

Warning: This article contains spoilers for The Iron Claw.

A24’s autobiographical sports drama The Iron Claw utilizes the iconic 1980s Rush tune “Tom Sawyer” in its trailer, but its use in the film is even better and has a deeper meaning. The Iron Claw is inspired by the real-life story of one of wrestling’s greatest families, the Von Erichs, chronicling the trials and tribulations they overcame on their path to becoming wrestling’s all-time greats. With most of the film’s central events taking place between the late 1970s to the early 1990s, The Iron Claw is rife with sensibilities and music that were popular during that time.

The Iron Claw‘s soundtrack includes the classic “Tom Sawyer,” and its use in the film perfectly establishes the tone and atmosphere of the 2023 drama. The song’s inclusion shows the filmmakers’ dedication to replicating the time period depicted as faithfully as possible. However, underneath the Prog-Rock power ballad’s catchiness lies a deeper meaning. Even though The Iron Claw changes important things about the real Von Erichs, the film is largely faithful to the true story, making its “Tom Sawyer” use that much more interesting.

The Iron Claw Using Tom Sawyer Was Factually Accurate

“Tom Sawyer” Was Kerry Von Erich’s Entrance Music From 1981-1983

Although The Iron Claw depicts Kevin Von Erich as the film’s protagonist and suggests he’ll be the first member of the Von Erich family to win a major world wrestling championship, Kerry Von Erich becomes the first member of the family to earn this distinction. He accomplishes this feat by beating the “Nature Boy,” Ric Flair, on May 6, 1984, thus winning the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. Kerry’s nickname, “The Modern Day Warrior,” fits perfectly with the prominent opening lyrics in “Tom Sawyer” — “A modern-day warrior / Mean-mean stride / Today’s Tom Sawyer / Mean-mean pride” — and the film gets this point across in a short amount of time.

Despite Kerry using another theme when he wins the NWA World Heavyweight Championship, “Tom Sawyer” still connects with Kerry’s nickname. The Iron Claw depicts Kevin as the siblings’ backbone and Kerry as the son destined to bring glory to the family name. Warriors are often depicted in movies as utterly fearless and brave, with many of their problems centering on external forces. However, the strongest people are usually individuals managing their internal issues despite seeming invincible on the outside. Kerry is a physically imposing wrestler basking in fame and glory, but his family life and personal demons grow stronger each time audiences see him.

Rush’s Tom Sawyer Is About A Troubled Young Man Struggling To Adapt To Life’s Challenges

Kevin Von Erich Is The Only Surviving Member Of The Original Von Erichs

The Iron Claw uses “Tom Sawyer” midway through the film, as the von Ehrichs’ popularity rises. A montage depicts the siblings indulging in heavy substance use and alcohol consumption, strengthening their bond while enduring their father’s abusive ways, then eventually finding success again. While “Tom Sawyer” is one of the most technically sound pieces in musical history, the content of its lyrics is often overlooked on account of the sheer musicianship on display. Similar to the Mark Twain novel, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Rush’s “Tom Sawyer” is about a troubled yet optimistic young boy constantly afflicted by unfortunate events.

Kevin reveals the origins of the Von Erich family curse to his future wife, Pam, on their first date. Even though Pan assures him it isn’t true, the increasing financial issues surrounding the family’s business, his brothers’ illnesses and untimely deaths, and the stress of becoming a father himself, reinforce the family curse in Kevin’s mind. However, despite all the strife in Kevin’s life, he maintains a positive attitude and eventually starts a new era of Von Erichs, as seen in The Iron Claw‘s ending. The Iron Claw excels in many things, but making a classic rock song a metaphor for perseverance truly speaks to the film’s quality.