“Unstoppable” on Prime Video, with Jennifer Lopez: the fabulous destiny of a one-legged wrestler

It’s yet another variation on the theme of the American dream. The one we achieve through perseverance, against all odds. Available on Prime Video since Thursday, January 16, “Unstoppable” is the biography of Anthony Robles, an American born without a right leg who became a wrestling champion.

The feature film tells the story of his fight to get into the best university despite his disability, thanks to a mother who loves and encourages him unconditionally, and despite a violent father, leading the family to the brink of expulsion.

Well put together and very gripping, this film contains all the ingredients to heighten the emotion: the sacrificial mother (played by Jennifer Lopez), the detestable father (Bobby Cannavale, seen in “Will and Grace”, “Cold Case”, “ The Watcher”…), the charismatic coaches (Michael Peña and Don Cheadle, both from the Marvel universe), the hugs and slow motion against a backdrop of violins and the tearful speeches.

Unsurprising, but frankly effective

The hero is played by Jharrel Jerome, revealed by “Moonlight”, by Barry Jenkins, and since seen in the series “Mr. Mercedes” and “In Their Eyes”. He is not one-legged, but the special effects erased his right leg. Behind the camera of this unsurprising, but frankly effective work, we find William Goldenberg.

The latter signed his first directorial effort at the age of 65, but he was the editor of numerous blockbusters, such as “Heat”, “Ali”, “Miami Vice”, “Gone Baby Gone”, “Zero Dark Thirty” or “Transformers.”

At the end of the film, we see images of the real Anthony Robles. He is now a TV sports columnist, personal development speaker, and was appointed by Barack Obama to the President’s Council on Sports, Health and Nutrition. In his old high school, photos of him are displayed on the walls. The adage of the establishment? “Persevere. Our character makes our destiny. » Fortunately, American cinema is there to give us lessons in courage…