Unstoppable

Stories like Anthony Robles’ are the stuff of inspirational fiction, except this one actually happened. Though born without a right leg and growing up in a volatile household, Robles never let go of his dream. He set out to develop the strength and skills that college wrestling demands. He aimed to earn a place on a US Division 1 team despite being its only disabled athlete. And he competed to win.

Starring Jharrel Jerome (Moonlight, TIFF ’16; When They See Us) as Robles in another outstanding performance, Unstoppable is both an irresistible sports drama and a family story full of heart. In the wrestling circle and the locker room, he has to convince two tough coaches (Michael Peña and Don Cheadle) that his grit and potential are real. At home, he contends with a mother going through some growing up of her own. Jennifer Lopez, too often underrated, is terrific here.

Unstoppable marks the follow-up to the sports drama Air, from Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s Artists Equity company. Director William Goldenberg, a veteran editor who also cut Air, brings a similar optimism and authenticity to this film. Weaving Jerome’s competition performance together with visual effects and Robles himself doubling in some shots, the wrestling scenes carry the on-the-mat urgency of genuine footage.

The real-life Robles has long been a champion for accessibility, and this film will no doubt bring his message to a wider public. Even better, it wraps that message in persuasive, deeply affecting drama.

Content advisory: themes of domestic violence; violence