The camaraderie between Zac Efron and Stanley Simons shines through as they team up for the upcoming film, “The Iron Claw.” At the world premiere in Dallas, Simons shared a delightful anecdote from the set, giving fans a peek into the fun dynamics between the co-stars.
During an interview with PEOPLE at the premiere, Simons spilled the beans on a playful moment with Efron. Channeling his inner Wildcat, Simons sang a bit of “Breaking Free,” referencing Efron’s iconic role in the High School Musical franchise. The on-set interaction added a touch of nostalgia and camaraderie to the filming process.
“I sung [some of ‘Breaking Free’] to Zac when I was playing my music scene. That was definitely a life experience that I’ll never forget,” Simons shared, highlighting the unique bond formed during the making of “The Iron Claw.”
Simons didn’t stop at the musical throwback; he continued the High School Musical references, jokingly stating, “When we were in the ring I was like, ‘I got to get my head in the game,'” a nod to another song from the 2006 film. The on-set banter showcased the duo’s playful spirit and added a lighthearted touch to the intense wrestling scenes.
“The Iron Claw” features Efron as real-life wrestler Kevin Von Erich, with Simons portraying Mike Von Erich. Jeremy Allen White takes on the role of Kerry, and Harris Dickinson plays David. The film revolves around the Von Erich wrestling family, offering a gripping portrayal of their lives.
“We really bonded and got to hang out,” Simons shared about working with the cast. “When we got on set, it just felt natural. They were really welcoming to me, not just my brothers but all the cast members.”
Kevin Von Erich, the only surviving brother of the Von Erich wrestling family, attended the premiere and praised Efron’s portrayal. Speaking about the actor stepping into his shoes, Kevin remarked, “He’s a real star. They all are.” The retired professional wrestler commended Efron for taking on the challenging role, acknowledging the difficulty of encapsulating his extensive wrestling career in a movie.
As fans eagerly anticipate the release of “The Iron Claw” on December 22, the anecdotes from the set, coupled with the camaraderie between the cast, promise an engaging and entertaining cinematic experience. The film not only explores the world of professional wrestling but also highlights the genuine connections formed during its creation.
