Zac Efron's metamorphosis for "Iron Claws" left him stunned
The actor, who portrays pro-wrestler Kevin Von Erich in the film, underwent a complete body makeover by amassing incredible muscle mass and donning a wig.
"At best, it didn't even look like me at all. Initially, it was a bit disconcerting, but we pieced it together piece by piece," Efron shared during the film's premiere this week with "The Hollywood Reporter."
The movie tells the true story of the Von Erich brothers, who were professional wrestlers in the early 80s. Kevin Von Erich, the character Efron portrays, was one of the guests at the film's premiere.
"That was pretty much all I could think about during the filming of this movie. It's something you try to put off a little, just want to get the work done and move on, but you still have that in the back of your mind, 'What the hell would Vin think?'" Efron added. "Meeting him, spending time with him, having him at our house was an incredibly satisfying feeling, more fulfilling than anything I've ever done in my life. I'm proud, I feel honored. He's part of everything."
Jeremy Allen White, who plays wrestler Kerry Von Erich in the video, found Efron's transformation "unsettling."
"He's quite intimidating," quipped the "Bear" star. "I had trained months, lifted weights, done this and that, eaten more, and then I showed up, saw him, and thought, 'What the hell am I even trying for?'"
"Iron Claw" hits theaters on December 22.
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Being an actor often demands pushing the limits for roles, and Efron's transformation is a testament to this commitment.
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Additional insights:
Zac Efron underwent an extensive physical overhaul to bring professional wrestler Kevin Von Erich to life on the big screen. Here are some details on his transformation and experiences working on the film:
- Rigorous Training:
- Gaining Muscle Mass: To achieve the required muscular physique, Efron had to perform intense workouts every day, packing on 15 pounds of muscle[1][3].
- Preparing for Perfection: The intense preparation for the role became an all-consuming obsession, taking a toll on his personal life[3].
- Pre-Film Challenges:
- Jaw Injury: Before filming, Efron suffered a severe jaw injury in 2013 by falling and hitting his chin on a granite fountain[1][4].
- Facial Changes: Recovery from the injury led to overactive masseter muscles, which noticeably altered his facial features, specifically his jawline and other features[1][4].
- Filming Experience:
- Director's Instructions: Director Sean Durkin advised Efron to refrain from crying until the final scene, creating added emotional depth[3].
- Role Evolution: Efron's career progression, from a "High School Musical" boy to a professional wrestler in "Iron Claws," showcases his versatility and ability to tackle demanding roles[3].
- Post-Film Recovery:
- Stem Cell Therapy: After the film's production, Efron was intrigued by stem cell therapy, which he began implementing for post-filming recovery[2].
In conclusion, Zac Efron's transformation for "Iron Claws" involved rigorous training, physical prep, and a career evolution, along with pre-film challenges and post-filming recovery.
