Jennifer Lopez shines at Toronto Film Festival with ‘Unstoppable’
A night to remember
Jennifer Lopez made a grand entrance at the Toronto Film Festival for the premiere of “Unstoppable”, a moving sports drama that captivated audiences on Friday night. Despite the rainy weather, fans gathered in droves, hoping to catch a glimpse of the star-studded cast, which included Jharrel Jerome, Don Cheadle, and Bobby Cannavale.
A story of resilience
“Unstoppable” tells the inspiring true story of Anthony Robles, a college wrestler born without a right leg who defied the odds to become a champion. Jerome, known for his role in “Moonlight,” delivers a powerful performance as Robles, capturing the determination and spirit that drove him to success. For more on the film, check out the Unstoppable trailer.
Behind the scenes
The film was produced by Artists Equity, the production company co-founded by Lopez’s ex-husband Ben Affleck and his long-time friend Matt Damon. Although Affleck was absent from the festival due to personal reasons, Damon attended the premiere and walked the red carpet, showing his support for the film and its cast.
Audience reactions
The screening at Roy Thomson Hall was met with enthusiastic applause and emotional reactions from the audience. The real Anthony Robles received a two-minute standing ovation as the end credits rolled, a testament to the film’s impact. During a post-screening Q&A, Robles expressed his gratitude and pride, saying, “It’s still hitting me tonight. I’m so proud. I couldn’t be any happier.”
Jennifer Lopez’s connection to the role
Lopez, who plays Robles’ mother Judy, shared her deep connection to the character. “When I read the script, I felt like so many women, including myself, could relate to the struggles she’s gone through,” Lopez said. “The story being Latino was so inspiring. It grabbed me.” Lopez’s portrayal of Judy Robles was praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, a testament to her dedication to the role.
A different kind of biopic
While Lopez has portrayed real people before, such as in the biopic “Selena,” her experience with “Unstoppable” was unique. She appreciated the opportunity to connect with Judy Robles through Zoom, which helped her shape her performance. “This was a different experience,” Lopez added. ”We were the same person in a way. The core and the heart of who we are — at first, we are moms.”
Praise from the real Judy Robles
Judy Robles, who attended the premiere and participated in the Q&A, commended Lopez’s performance. “You were me — with the sass, but also the sadness and pain,” she told Lopez. Cannavale, who plays Judy’s abusive husband, added a touch of humor to the conversation, joking, “But in a funny way?”
A director’s debut
“Unstoppable” marks the feature debut of William Goldenberg, an Oscar-winning editor known for his work on Affleck’s films “Argo” and “Air.” Goldenberg expressed his gratitude for the support he received from Affleck and Damon. “They supported me and set me up for success. I appreciate everything they’ve done,” he said. “I worked with Ben for almost 20 years as an editor. His faith in me exceeded my faith in myself.”
Final thoughts
“Unstoppable” is more than just a sports drama; it’s a story of perseverance, family, and the power of dreams. With a stellar cast and a compelling narrative, the film is sure to resonate with audiences worldwide. For those who haven’t seen it yet, the Unstoppable trailer offers a glimpse into this heartfelt journey.
In the world of cinema, stories like “Unstoppable” remind us of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of never giving up on our dreams. Whether you’re a fan of sports dramas or simply looking for an inspiring tale, “Unstoppable” is a must-watch.