The AFI Fest premiere of Unstoppable on October 26, 2024, was an electrifying event that brought to life the powerful true story of Anthony Robles, a man born without one leg who defied all odds to become an NCAA wrestling champion. The screening was followed by an insightful Q&A session, featuring the film’s director William Goldenberg, stars Jharrel Jerome and Jennifer Lopez, and real-life subjects Anthony Robles and his mother, Judy Robles. Moderated by Scott Feinberg, Executive Editor (Awards) of The Hollywood Reporter, the discussion delved into the film’s creation and its inspiring message.
Directed by William Goldenberg, an Oscar®-winning editor making his directorial debut, Unstoppable combines the grit of a sports drama with the emotional depth of a family story. The film is not just about athletic achievement but also the complex dynamics within Robles’ personal life, which shaped his journey to success. At the heart of the narrative is the relationship between Anthony and his mother, Judy, played by Jennifer Lopez. Lopez’s performance as Judy is both commanding and compassionate, capturing the strength of a mother determined to protect her family while supporting her son’s dreams.
Jharrel Jerome shines in his portrayal of Anthony Robles, bringing a quiet intensity to the role. His performance effectively showcases the emotional and physical challenges faced by Anthony as he navigates an abusive household and the competitive world of collegiate wrestling. Jerome’s depiction of Anthony’s resilience is moving, illustrating not just his drive to succeed in sports, but also his struggle for personal growth and family unity. Lopez’s Judy is the emotional anchor of the film, offering a layered portrayal of a woman balancing love and survival amid the chaos of an abusive relationship with her husband Rick, played by Bobby Cannavale.
Cannavale’s portrayal of Rick is chilling, making him a formidable antagonist who complicates Judy’s and Anthony’s lives. The film doesn’t shy away from the difficult moments, instead using them to underscore the theme of perseverance. Judy’s decision to leave Rick serves as a turning point in both her life and Anthony’s, representing a pivotal moment of empowerment. Supporting roles from Michael Peña and Don Cheadle as Anthony’s coaches provide both humor and motivation, adding a lighter, yet equally meaningful, dimension to the story.
Unstoppable benefits from a smart screenplay by Eric Champnella, Alex Harris, and John Hindman, which avoids sports-movie clichés while remaining true to the elements of the genre that make it so inspiring. The script blends personal struggle with Anthony’s pursuit of greatness, making it clear that his biggest battles were not just on the wrestling mat but also in overcoming internal and external challenges.
Goldenberg’s direction is supported by a talented team, including Director of Photography Salvatore Totino, who captures both the intensity of wrestling matches and the raw emotion of family conflict. The editing by Brett Reed keeps the film’s pace engaging, balancing the tense wrestling sequences with intimate character moments. Production design by Jon Carlos and costume design by Janelle Nicole Carothers further enhance the authenticity of the setting, while Alexandre Desplat’s stirring musical score amplifies the emotional beats of the film.
During the post-screening discussion, Jennifer Lopez spoke passionately about her role, emphasizing the importance of portraying strong, real-life stories. “It’s about the power of never giving up,” she noted, highlighting the film’s core message of resilience. Jharrel Jerome echoed this sentiment, adding that he hopes the film will inspire audiences to overcome their own struggles, no matter how daunting they may seem. Anthony Robles himself shared how surreal it was to see his story brought to life on the big screen, expressing gratitude for the filmmakers’ dedication to authenticity.
Unstoppable is more than just a sports drama; it is a story of hope, resilience, and the enduring bond between a mother and her son. It captures the essence of what it means to be truly “unstoppable” in the face of adversity. With its strong performances, emotional depth, and compelling direction, the film is destined to resonate with audiences and secure its place among the great sports dramas.
Rating: 5/5
Key Highlights
- Jharrel Jerome and Jennifer Lopez deliver powerful performances: Jerome portrays Anthony Robles with compelling intensity, while Lopez adds depth as Judy Robles, the heart of the story.
- Authentic storytelling by William Goldenberg: Goldenberg’s directorial debut effectively blends sports drama with a profound family narrative, emphasizing perseverance.
- Inspiring message of resilience: The film goes beyond athletic achievement, focusing on personal growth, family unity, and overcoming life’s toughest challenges.
Report Lela Christine
