It’s been a minute since a sports drama has made me teary, but 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 (Jharrel 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 accomplishments, 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 Arizona State University’s wrestling team after his jerk of a stepdad, Rick (Bobby Cannavale), walks out on Judy and the rest of his siblings. Anthony wants to stay nearby to help his family and, though Coach Shawn Charles (Don Cheadle) initially tells him how difficult 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 touching film that’s poignant and occasionally even funny. Unstoppable underscores the value of a good support system, and I deeply 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, but Unstoppable takes it one step further, showcasing the intricacies of Anthony’s home life. We wouldn’t understand who he is a person if this aspect had been cut.

Strength and perseverance drive Anthony’s story, but Champnella’s script takes the time to lean into the mother-son relationship at the heart of the film. These aren’t just moments that pass through; they’re pivotal to the storytelling. We may know Anthony will ultimately succeed in beating his final 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 multiple times. It’s a testament to the script and Goldenberg’s directing that we feel the emotions so deeply.

It’s a film that’s primed to pull at your heartstrings and make you root for Anthony and Judy, who are relatable.

The theme of masculinity is nicely explored through Anthony and Rick’s tumultuous relationship. The latter is always going on about manhood and making choices as 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. It’s a stark contrast to Rick’s ego and volatile behavior. Cannavale is especially obnoxious in the role, and it’s easy to despise Rick’s very presence. Crucially, Unstoppable highlights the different kinds of father figures in Anthony’s life, and what’s healthy to look up to.

Unstoppable’s Story Is Meaningful
Even if the film doesn’t do anything particularly different from others in the genre

Unstoppable isn’t out to change the sports drama genre — and that’s perfectly fine. It’s an impressive film that is nicely 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 that results in a tender, endearing performance. Lopez, generally good, portrays Judy with an underlying sadness and, later, tenacity. Not since Hustlers has she been this 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’re instantly brought into Anthony’s world. Biopics can be tricky to do because they should always spotlight a person’s humanity just as much as their accomplishments, and Unstoppable manages to do just that. It’s no easy feat, but we get to know the core of who Anthony is and why he fights so hard to be the wrestling champion. The obstacles in his way are layered and personal, making for a well-rounded film that is sweet, emotional, and occasionally even intense thanks to wrestling matches that feel like we’re watching live.

If I could describe Unstoppable in one word, it would be defiant — just like Robles. It’s a film that’s primed to pull at your heartstrings and make you root for Anthony and Judy, who are relatable. Their bond carries the film through to the end and, when Anthony finally earns that national championship, I was cheering along with the onscreen audience.

Unstoppable premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival. The film is 116 minutes long and rated PG-13 for some strong language and thematic material.