It’s been a minute since a sports drama made me cry, though Unstoppable (2024)
is powerful storytelling that elicits an emotional response. Directed by William Goldenberg from a screenplay by Eric Champnella, John Hindman and Alex Harris, Unstoppable is based on the true story of Anthony Robles (Jarrell Jerome), who, with only one leg, won the national wrestling championship in 2011. The sports drama is deeply moving, not only because of Robles’ phenomenal achievements, but his mother Judy’s (Jennifer Lopez), as well. It’s the kind of movie that’s simultaneously a feel-good tear-jerker that’s deeply personal in the themes it tackles.
Unstoppable Follows Anthony during his final years in high school and then college, as he tries to make it onto the Arizona State University wrestling team after being pushed by a stepdad, Rick (Bobby Cannavale), who walks out on Judy and the rest of his siblings. Anthony wants to stay nearby to help his family and although coach Sean Charles (Don Cheadle) initially tells him how hard it is to make the team as a walk-on, Anthony beats the odds in more ways than one.
Unstoppable is about more than just Anthony Robles’ wrestling
The film is unabashed about its heartwarming moments and takes a page from some of the most inspirational sports dramas to give us a moving film that is poignant and at times even funny. Unstoppable emphasizes the value of a good support system, and I really appreciated how it focused almost as much on Judy, who struggled to remove herself from an abusive marriage. There are films that prioritize the respective athlete’s sport, however Unstoppable Takes it one step further, and shows the intricacies of Anthony’s home life. We would not understand who he is as a person if this aspect were cut.
Strength and perseverance drive Anthony’s story, but Champnella’s script takes the time to flesh out the mother-son relationship at the heart of the film. These are not just moments that pass by; They are pivotal to the narrative. We may know that Anthony will ultimately succeed in beating his ultimate opponent, but the journey to get there makes the win all the better. I talked to several people after seeing the film who admitted they teared up a few times. It is a testament to the script and Goldenberg’s direction that we feel the emotions so deeply.
It’s a film primed to tug at your heartstrings and make you root for Anthony and Judy, who are relatable.
The theme of masculinity is beautifully explored through Anthony and Rick’s tumultuous relationship. The latter is always going on about humanity and making choices like an adult. Jerome’s quiet yet fiery anger at Rick is tamed for the most part, as he shows through his actions what it means to be a good role model. This is a stark contrast to Rick’s ego and volatile nature. Cannavale is especially awkward in the role, and it’s easy to despise Rick’s very presence. critical, Unstoppable Highlights the different kinds of father figures in Anthony’s life, and what’s healthy to look up to.
The story of Unstoppable is meaningful
Even if the film does not do anything particularly different from others in the genre
Unstoppable It’s not out to change the sports drama genre – and that’s perfectly fine. It’s an impressive film that’s beautifully put together, and that’s a big part of what makes it so great. The actors are a highlight, with Jerome bringing his all to a challenging role, bridging Anthony’s vulnerability and ferocity resulting in a tender, endearing performance. Lopez, generally good, portrays Judy with an underlying sadness and, later, stubbornness. Not since Hustler Was she that good. Cheadle is reliably great, and Michael Peña is sweet and funny as Anthony’s high school coach, both with wisdom to offer.
The story unfolds at a good pace, and we are immediately brought into Anthony’s world. Biopics can be tricky to do because they should always spotlight a person’s humanity as much as their accomplishments, and Unstoppable manages to do just that. It’s no easy feat, but we get to know the heart of who Anthony is and why he fights so hard to be the wrestling champion. The obstacles in his path are layered and personal, making for a well-rounded film that’s sweet, emotional and occasionally even intense thanks to wrestling matches that feel like we’re watching live.
If I can describe Unstoppable In a word, it would be defiant – just like Robles. It’s a film primed to tug at your heartstrings and make you root for Anthony and Judy, who are relatable. Their bond carries the film to the end, and when Anthony finally earns the national championship, I was cheering along with the onscreen audience.
Unstoppable Premiere at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival. The film is 116 minutes long and rated PG-13 for some strong language and thematic material.
Despite being born with one leg, Anthony Robles overcomes significant challenges at home and in the competitive world of wrestling. His determination and relentless drive lead him to become an NCAA Division 1 wrestling champion, earning him national recognition and a place in the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.
- The performances of the cast are lovely
- The story is meaningful and heartfelt
- Anthony Robles is portrayed with humanity
- The film doesn’t just focus on Anthony’s wrestling career