Jharrel Jones gives a compelling take as Anthony Robles complementing Jennifer Lopez’s endearing performance in ‘UNSTOPPABLE’

By Oliver Carnay

UNSTOPPABLE Special Screening at AFIFEST 38th edition was followed by a Q&A with Dir. WILLIAM GOLDENBERG, actors Jharrel Jerome and Jennifer Lopez, and subjects Anthony Robles and Judy Robles moderated by Executive Editor (Awards) of The Hollywood Reporter, Scott Feinberg.

UNSTOPPABLE marks the directorial debut of Oscar®-winning editor William Goldenberg, who has crafted an inspiring, crowd-pleasing drama that is sure to win a spot in the Hall of Fame of great sports movies.

UNSTOPPABLE tells the incredible real-life story of Anthony Robles, born without a leg, who became a champion high school and collegiate wrestler, winning an NCAA title in 2011. Despite his high school success, Robles still had to fight for a spot on an elite college team, earning a walk-on role at Arizona State University. Jharrel Jerome (MOONLIGHT, WHEN THEY SEE US) gives a quietly powerful performance as a man who not only overcome immense challenges as an athlete, but also in his home life where his abusive stepfather Rick (Bobby Cannavale) tormented his mother Judy (Jennifer Lopez) and siblings. Cannavale impresses as an adept manipulator, as does Lopez as a woman who must free herself and her family from his harm and deceptions. As Anthony’s high school and college coaches, Michael Peña and Don Cheadle provide deft supporting work, and the savvy script, showing a touch of sports movie self-awareness, allows both of them comedic moments with their motivational coach dialogue.