Unstoppable Image Showcases Don Cheadle’s Powerful Performance as a Motivational Wrestling Coach

This article is part of ScreenRant’s Exclusive 2025 Movie Preview. Be sure to check back next week for the complete feature!

New visuals from Unstoppable highlight Don Cheadle’s compelling portrayal of Shawn Charles, a real-life wrestling coach. This biographical sports drama narrates the remarkable journey of Anthony Robles (played by Jharrel Jerome), who, despite being born with a single leg, ascends to become a champion wrestler, thanks in part to the unwavering support from his coach, Charles, and his mother, Judy (portrayed by Jennifer Lopez). The film also features performances from notable actors including Bobby Cannavale, Michael Peña, Chimechi Oparanozie, Parker Sack, Jordan Wallace, and Shawn Hatosy. Following its premiere at TIFF in September and its limited theatrical release in December, Unstoppable has garnered impressive reviews, achieving a Certified Fresh score of 82% on Rotten Tomatoes.

ScreenRant is excited to present an exclusive image from Unstoppable as anticipation builds for its debut on Prime Video, set for January 16, 2025. The image captures a powerful moment of connection between Charles and Robles, showcasing Cheadle’s dedicated encouragement during a pivotal wrestling match. His expression reflects both concern and a profound desire for his protégé’s success. Below, you can view the full-size image:

Don Cheadle as Shawn Charles encouraging Jharrel Jerome as Anthony Robles in the wrestling arena in Unstoppable

Don Cheadle’s Performance Fuels Unstoppable

An Oscar-Nominated Performance

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxEEdR2ZTDw

Unstoppable – Official Trailer | Prime Video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxEEdR2ZTDw)

The emotional heart of Unstoppable, adapted from Robles’ 2012 memoir, lies in the bonds depicted between its central characters, especially between Robles and his mother. Yet, as illustrated in the recent image, the dynamic between Robles and Cheadle’s character is equally vital to the narrative. The Oscar-nominated actor’s intensity significantly enhances the emotional highs and lows of Robles’ journey to become a champion.

Don Cheadle received his Oscar nomination back in 2005 for his outstanding performance in Hotel Rwanda.

As of now, Cheadle’s role in Unstoppable has not received major awards recognition during the current 2024-2025 awards season. He failed to secure nominations at the 2025 Golden Globes or the Critics Choice Awards. However, there’s still a possibility for an Academy Award nomination in January, although it poses as a long shot. Despite less hype around this performance compared to other films with notable male supporting roles like A Real Pain and Gladiator II, Cheadle’s commitment is expected to contribute to the film’s upcoming success after its Prime Video release.

Unstoppable Could Join the Ranks of Sports Drama Classics

An Inspiring Narrative That Resonates

Jharrel Jerome takes down a wrestling opponent in Unstoppable

Although Unstoppable has yet to reach a broad audience, the early reviews are exceedingly positive, suggesting it has the potential to become a prominent entry in the collection of classic inspiring sports dramas. Echoing the successes of films like Rudy and The Boys in the Boat, the palpable intensity exhibited by the cast, particularly through the showcased performances of Cheadle and Jerome, promises to propel this film to cinematic acclaim.

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