Key Takeaways:
– Zac Efron breaks away from stereotypes by taking on the role of a pro-wrestler in The Iron Claw.
– The role required Zac to gain 15 pounds of muscle after intensive training.
– Despite the physical challenges, the actor stated the transformation was worth the effort.
– His performance was well-received, earning high ratings and contributing to the film's box office success.
– Efron had a minor scare following an incident in a pool in Ibiza but has since recovered.
From High School Musical to The Iron Claw: Zac's Evolution
Actor Zac Efron is no longer the regular high-school actor we once knew. Since his breakout role in High School Musical in 2006, this star has proved he's not all about stereotypes. Instead, he focuses on stepping out of his comfort zone to take on more daring roles. The Baywatch star recently took up a challenging role in A24's The Iron Claw, where he plays pro-wrestler Kevin Von Erich. This required undergoing a remarkable transformation that changed not only his physique but his approach to acting.
Inside The Iron Claw: Challenges with Gaining Muscle
To fully embody his role as a pro-wrestler in The Iron Claw, Zac needed to pack on a significant amount of muscle. He gained an impressive 15 pounds of muscle which necessitated strenuous work at the gym and disciplined dedication. More than a physical journey, Zac told Variety that it became an obsession, with nothing being more important than achieving the perfect look for the character imposed on him. But that dedication and sacrifice paid off. Zac admitted with a proud smile that he no longer recognised himself but indeed looked like the pro-wrestler he was portraying.
Zac's Minor Accident: A Scare, But No Detour
However, along with the victorious stories are also tales of unexpected events. Efron recently had a scare when he had an accident in a pool in Ibiza. Thanks to prompt action, he was quickly pulled from the water and rushed to the hospital. Thankfully, the situation wasn't as critical as initially feared. The Baywatch star was discharged the following day in good health. These incidents only underscore the multiple challenges an actor has to face while pushing their physical limits for their roles.
The Iron Claw: Critics and Box Office Success
Despite the hurdles, his strident efforts in The Iron Claw have not gone unnoticed. The film has proven a critical and commercial success. The film has scored high ratings both on Rotten Tomatoes (89%) and IMDb (7.9), earning rave reviews from critics. Furthermore, it also garnered a nifty sum at the box office, taking in approximately $45 million on a $15 million budget. This box office success only proves Zac's range and the transformative effect his commitment can have.
It is clear that Zac Efron is a transformative actor, willing to venture beyond his familiar terrain to embody new roles more authentically. Whether it is gaining 15 pounds of muscle or recovering from an unexpected accident, nothing seems to deter this Baywatch star from delivering noteworthy performances that continue to redefine him in the industry. As fans, we can't wait to see what Zac takes on next, even as we rejoice at his current success with The Iron Claw.
