By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
Over the years, we've seen countless sports dramas inspired by true stories, many of which follow a familiar formula: a determined underdog faces adversity, overcomes the odds, and triumphs in a climactic final moment—be it a game-winning "nothing but net" shot, touchdown, or home run.
While some of these films check all the right boxes, they often feel predictable. But the wrestling movie
"Unstoppable" hits different.
Directed/co-written by
William Goldberg ("Transformers: Rise of the Beasts") and produced by Ben Affleck ("Air") and Matt Damon ("Oppenheimer"), this electrifying sports drama rises above the usual cliches and not only avoids the typical rah-rah tropes but also delivers a deeply inspiring and heartfelt experience.
Who knew wrestling could be so exciting?
"Unstoppable" is inspired by
NCAA Champion wrestler Anthony Robles' 2012 memoir "Unstoppable: From Underdog to Undefeated: How I Became a Champion," and it chronicles his remarkable journey to overcome a physical disability--being born with only one leg--and become a wrestling champion.
What makes this movie work is its stellar performances. At the heart of "Unstoppable" is
Jharrel Jerome (TV's When They See Us), who delivers an exceptional portrayal of Anthony Robles. Jerome captures the internal and external battles of Anthony, combining vulnerability and strength to show the relentless spirit of a man who defied expectations in a sport that seemed out of reach. He’s not just playing a wrestler--he embodies the very essence of a fighter.
Equally impressive is
Jennifer Lopez ("Hustlers"), who plays Anthony's mother, Judy. Known for her larger-than-life persona, Lopez brings a refreshing subtlety to the role, as a mother whose fierce love for her son is tempered by the challenges of raising a child with a disability. Her performance is tender and nuanced, and it soundly resonates throughout the film.
Anthony's journey is fraught with challenges. After winning a state wrestling championship at Mesa High School in Arizona, he later earns a full scholarship to Drexel University, but he holds out hope for a spot at the University of Iowa, a school with a much more stellar wrestling pedigree.
However, when no other schools respond, Anthony's high school coach Bobby Williams (another star turn for Michael Pena, "A Million Miles Away") urges Anthony to go with the full ride from Drexel University in Philly.
Now, Anthony is also faced with the reality of competing for a spot at Arizona State University, where he's told he'll have to "walk on" and prove himself among recruited athletes.
Against all odds, Anthony's unwavering determination becomes his greatest asset, especially when he astonishes his coach, Shawn Charles (an excellent Don Cheadle, TV's "Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist"), and his teammates by running up a steep mountain on crutches.
The film also delves into Anthony's complicated family dynamics, particularly his fraught relationship with his abusive stepfather, Rick (an outstanding Bobby Cannavale, "MaXXXine"), a prison guard who brings his anger home to his wife, Judy, and their children, Nicholas (Noen Perez, "Natty Knocks"), Andrew (Carlos Solozano, "Flamin' Hot"), Ronnie (Julianna Gamiz, "Sing 2") and Joshua (Elijah James, TV's "The Hug Machine").
Despite these challenges, Anthony remains driven to provide a better life for his mother, and he finds support and wisdom from Eddie (Mykelti Williamson, TV's "Law & Order: Organized Crime"), a father figure who offers guidance and mentorship.
In a genre often dominated by formulaic plots, "Unstoppable" shines as a testament to human resilience, courage, and the belief that no obstacle is too great to overcome.
This movie leaves a lasting impression that will have you cheering, not just for Anthony Robles, but for the people who believed and helped him along the way.
Editor's Note: "Unstoppable" debuts on
Prime Video Jan. 16. Be sure to catch my N2Entertainment.net movie talk segment on the Kitty O'Neal Show Fridays now at 5:17 p.m. and 6:47 p.m. on radio station KFBK 93.1 FM and 1530 AM.
Look At This Trailer For
"UNSTOPPABLE"
Lana K. Wilson-Combs is a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association (BFCA), The American Film Institute (AFI), and a Nominating Committee Voting Member for the NAACP Image Awards.
