An advance screening of Unstoppable at New York City’s SVA Theater this past Sunday offered a powerful look at Anthony Robles’ journey from adversity to athletic stardom. The biographical drama, directed by William Goldenberg, explores how Robles, born without a right leg, overcame seemingly insurmountable odds to achieve his dream of becoming a wrestling champion. Cast members, including Jennifer Lopez, Jharrel Jerome, Robles himself, and Goldenberg, took part in a Q&A session following the screening, sharing insights into the film’s emotional depth and physical intensity.
Lopez, who portrays Robles’ mother Judy, reflected on the significance of Jerome’s role, likening it to her 1997 breakout portrayal of Tejano star Selena Quintanilla. “I was like, ‘This is your Selena,’” she recalled, highlighting the transformative experience of portraying a real person early in an actor’s career. Lopez pointed out the unique advantage Jerome had in working closely with Robles throughout filming, a luxury she didn’t have for Selena. “I wish I could have had that too,” she said, underscoring the rare and intimate perspective Jerome gained from the source himself.
A Gritty Path to Success
In Unstoppable, Jerome takes on the challenging role of Robles, a young wrestler whose fierce determination propels him through a turbulent upbringing and onto the wrestling mat. The trailer, released last week, hints at the emotional depth of Robles’ journey, with Jerome’s character declaring, “If I win, having one leg won’t be the most important thing about me.” Lopez’s character, Judy, is equally compelling, as she offers unwavering support to her son, reminding him, “When they see you, they don’t see someone who’s missing a leg. They see someone who is unstoppable.”
Produced by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s company, Artists Equity, Unstoppable not only celebrates Robles’ achievements but also delivers a broader message about resilience. Jerome and Lopez, alongside Bobby Cannavale, Michael Peña, and Don Cheadle, bring to life a powerful story that goes beyond the wrestling mat, showing the personal battles and inner strength that define Robles’ life.
Training for Greatness: Seven Months in the Making
For Jerome, portraying Robles authentically meant embracing the rigorous training that defines the life of a wrestler. He shared his preparation process with the audience, noting that Robles himself coached him in wrestling for seven months. “We trained for 7 months straight, 5 days a week,” Jerome said, explaining that he learned not only the techniques but the unique style that sets Robles apart. With Robles by his side throughout the grueling sessions, Jerome was able to closely observe the champion’s distinct movements and mindset. “If I was there 13 hours, he was there 13 hours with me,” Jerome said, adding that the experience was transformative.
Goldenberg’s Directorial Debut Brings Depth to Robles’ Story
Director William Goldenberg, making his debut behind the camera, captured both the physical intensity of wrestling and the emotional nuances of Robles’ journey. Known for his editing work on Argo and other acclaimed films, Goldenberg drew inspiration from Robles’ story, ensuring that the essence of his struggles—and triumphs—remained intact.
With a powerful story and a cast deeply committed to bringing it to life, Unstoppable is set to inspire audiences when it arrives in theaters on December 6. The film’s release on Prime Video follows on January 16, 2025, ensuring that Robles’ story will reach a wide audience, delivering a message of hope, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of a true champion.
