By John McDonald - January 15, 2025
Never has the title of a film been more suitable when describing its protagonist than this one. Anthony Robles's (Jharrel Jerome) unstoppable nature is a wondrous thing to witness; with the odds stacked against this young man from birth, he had the determination not to let a disability define who he was. He undoubtedly attained his mental capacity from his mother, the equally unstoppable Judy Robles (Jennifer Lopez), whose resolve against her personal and financial issues is more than admirable.
The stereotypical sports drama is one we all have a soft spot for, surely. An uplifting story weaved together with cliched narrative techniques and moments of pain and sorrow. Each sports drama borrows something from the previous one, but that’s not to say they aren’t enjoyable though. Unstoppable is no different and what might initially seem like a carbon copy of the others on the surface, actually stands up in its own right. Inspired by Rocky more than anything (those cherished Philadelphia steps are used to encourage our hero), the story behind Unstoppable should be celebrated because it’s one of unbelievable greatness.
Unstoppable tells the story of Anthony Robles, a young man from Mesa, Arizona, who went on to be a national high school champion wrestler before becoming an NCAA individual wrestling national champion even though he was born with only one leg. Based on the book by Robles ‘Unstoppable: From Underdog to Undefeated: How I Became a Champion’ the film charts the journey Anthony made from high school wrestling superstar to the unknown and ostracized collegiate prospect, before reaching the top of the mountain. Robles also had to navigate through a difficult home life with his mother and young siblings who struggled to make ends meet, while his stepfather Rick (Bobby Cannavale) berated him every chance he could. Robles' decision to take on a full-time job to support his studies and aid his family's woes, while supporting himself through college shows what kind of character this man would become.
Although oddly stoic for large parts, Jharrel Jerome puts in an assured performance as Robles, undoubtedly standing up to the test in what was surely a physically draining role. Lopez shines during a couple of scenes of great emotion but mostly feels like an afterthought. However, the film's star is Cannavale who not only puts in an impressive performance as the vulgar Rick, but you could argue that he is too good in the role and completely overshadows everyone else, which is a credit to his acting skills. Rounding out this subtly star-studded cast are Michael Pena and Don Cheadle who portray two of Robles’ wrestling coaches, with Cheadle in particular putting in a performance of note with some heart-warming moments between him and his wrestling star.
It might seem like a run-of-the-mill sports melodrama but Unstoppable is structured in a way that sets it apart from others. There is no back story to explore; no expansion of childhood trauma that paves the way for character; no falling at the hurdle as a young boy struggling with a disability. The film starts from the core of the character's most prominent period, where he has already overcome so much but sets out on a quest for even more. It’s also aided by some truly intense wrestling scenes confirming just how fierce this sport can be. They are intricately planned and brilliantly choreographed; the actors seem thoroughly trained, allowing for the most authenticity in what could have been easy to fall at. These action scenes are seamlessly edited which is no surprise with award-winning director William Goldenberg sitting in the director's chair for the first time, guiding his editor with a wealth of knowledge in the craft for sure.
For such an impressive story though, the film falls a bit flat - the smell of cheese is pungent and diminishes Roble’s story ever so slightly. There’s also an unusual selection of songs that litter this film (mainly during several of its montage scenes) that completely take you out of the world it’s trying to paint. It ticks a lot of boxes that you’d want and expect from an uplifting sports drama though. Heartstrings are tugged; tears will be had if you’re made of the soft stuff, and it undoubtedly spreads awareness for an unknown hero to most, which is important. Even though Goldenberg’s debut film struggles at times, it is a fine effort that hopefully paves the way for many more films.
Streaming on Prime Video January 16
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