The upcoming feature film “Unstoppable” is a powerful cinematic testament to the triumph of the human spirit, where grit, heart and determination collide to create a champion.
It tells the compelling, real-life story of Anthony Robles, a young man who rose above immense challenges to become a national wrestling champion despite being born with one leg. Played by Adult Cross Cultural Kid and Emmy Award-winner Jharrel Jerome, Robles’ journey to defy the odds and claim victory on the mat is an intimate and sweeping portrayal of human perseverance. Jerome, known for his profound dedication to his craft, spent months working closely with Robles to capture the physicality and spirit needed for this profoundly moving role.
With a screenplay by Eric Champnella, Alex Harris and John Hindman — and based on the book by Robles and Austin Murphy — the film delves deep into the emotional and physical resilience required to achieve greatness. Unstoppable follows Robles’ struggles on the mat and within himself as he navigates self-doubt, external expectations and the physical demands of collegiate wrestling.
This film marks the directorial debut of William Goldenberg, an Academy Award-winning editor known for his work on Argo. Goldenberg brings an impeccable eye for detail and narrative pacing to the project, using his rich experience from acclaimed films like The Imitation Game, Zero Dark Thirty and Seabiscuit. His transition from editor to director promises a cinematic experience that blends technical precision with raw emotional depth.
The all-star ensemble cast includes powerhouse performances from Bobby Cannavale, Michael Peña, Don Cheadle and Jennifer Lopez, who portrays Robles’ unwaveringly supportive mother, Judy. Lopez’s portrayal promises to anchor the film with a heartfelt depiction of maternal love and sacrifice.
Robles himself appears in the film, credited as “Anthony Robles Double,” performing the complex wrestling sequences and providing a sense of authenticity to the sport’s depiction. He also served as a producer, ensuring the film tells his life story honestly and respectfully.
Produced by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s Artists Equity, Unstoppable further distinguishes itself with its commitment to accessibility. The production employed Accessibility Coordinators from IndieVisible, ensuring a fully inclusive environment on set, with productivity tools available for all cast and crew, showing the filmmakers’ attention to diversity, equity and inclusion both in front of and behind the camera.
The film premiered last month at the prestigious 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, a fitting stage for a story of universal appeal and emotional power. Select theaters across the U.S. and U.K. will release it in December 2024. Prime Video will release it soon after.
