The multi-hyphenate artist's latest film, 'Unstoppable,' receives overwhelming praise at the Toronto International Film Festival, earning a standing ovation and the approval of its real-life subject, Anthony Robles.
- Sep 7, 2024
AceShowbiz - "Unstoppable", starring Jennifer Lopez, has received high praise from both the audience and the real-life hero whose story it depicts, Anthony Robles. The movie, which was met with a standing ovation at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), chronicles Robles' inspiring journey as a wrestler born with one leg who defied the odds to become an NCAA national champion in 2011 at Arizona State University. Lopez plays Robles' mother, Judy Robles, while Jharrel Jerome takes on the role of Anthony.
Lopez graced the red carpet at TIFF, dazzling in a silver sequined dress by Tamara Ralph, complete with metallic accessories, and her signature confidence. Despite personal challenges, including her recent divorce from Ben Affleck, Lopez exuded poise and elegance, capturing the admiration of fans and press alike.
Anthony Robles, who served as a producer and stunt double for Jerome, expressed the challenges and therapeutic nature of sharing his story. "I'd say the most difficult part was just telling the uncomfortable things," Robles shared in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. "But I felt like in order to tell my story correctly, and truly impact the most people, they had to know my pain. They had to know the scars that I went through and what I dealt with. I think that was tough for me, but it was also therapeutic."
Lopez, during the Q&A session, articulated the responsibility felt by the filmmakers to honor Robles' story with authenticity. "Anthony and Judy trusted the filmmakers with all the information that they could give us and know that we wouldn't misuse it in any way, but only use it to tell their story in the best and most beautiful way that it deserved," she said. "Because it is one of the most beautiful, most inspiring stories I think I've ever seen on screen.”
The film boasts a star-studded cast, including Michael Pena, Don Cheadle and Bobby Cannavale. Produced by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon under their company Artists Equity, 'Unstoppable' marks William Goldenberg's directorial debut. The film is set to hit select theaters in December and will soon be available on Prime Video.
As the evening concluded, the powerful message of resilience and determination resonated with all who attended. Robles summed it up perfectly: "We nailed it and this team nailed it. No matter what you're wrestling, you can overcome it. You can be unstoppable." This film not only celebrates a remarkable individual but also serves as a universal beacon of hope and encouragement.