Interview: Stanley Simons Chats About His Tragic Role in ‘The Iron Claw’

The Von Erich brothers had a special bond. So, naturally, the actors playing the boys would need to as well. As the newcomer among the cast, Stanley Simons could easily have struggled to stand out. Instead, he fits in brilliantly, playing in some ways the character that many watching The Iron Claw will identify with most. So, it was only natural to want to talk with him when the opportunity arose. My chats with the cast of the film began yesterday with Maura Tierney here. Today, it’s Simons stepping up to bat.

In my rave review of the movie, found here, I had the following to say about the cast:

Zac Efron has never been better, turning in one of the year’s very best performances. He shows you the utter decency of this man, as well as the paranoia that his family, who he loves with all his heart, is cursed. The chemistry he has with his siblings too is something to behold. Efron has always been underrated as an actor, full of charisma and charm, but here he puts it all together. Also delivering terrific work is Jeremy Allen White as the most tortured of the brothers. He has the most intense role and he delivers, including in a scene that had gasps in my premiere screening. White is a heavyweight, to be sure, and this is more evidence of it. Harris Dickinson and Stanley Simons have less screen time, but they don’t waste a moment of it. The former wears the weight of being the chosen one of the lot, while the latter shows his passion for music in a beautiful scene. The male central characters are rounded out by patriarch Holt McCallany, who intimidates while also showing his love for his family. That dichotomy is wonderfully displayed, as this is one of the more complex characters of the year. As for the women, Lily James is rock solid as the outsider, while Maura Tierney does so much as the matriarch with just her eyes. A certain scene that’s repeated throughout the film will wreck you. Supporting turns here also include the likes of Kevin Anton, Maxwell Jacob Friedman, Michael Harney, and more.

Below, you can hear my discussion with Simons. I wanted to hear about his interactions with the cast, playing music on set, and everything that came with the role in The Iron Claw. I’m happy to say that he didn’t disappoint. This conversation came in the middle of my press day for the movie, so he’s getting me at the perfect time, in the midst of a loopy day. We had a good chat, for a great film, so don’t miss either!

Here now is my interview with The Iron Claw co-star Stanley Simons. Enjoy:

The Iron Claw is in theaters tomorrow!