Ever wonder how Air Jordan become one of the biggest footwear and apparel brands in the world? In our latest selection for ‘What To Watch On Prime Video‘ series we take you behind the scenes at Nike with the 2023 sports drama ‘Air.’ Directed by the accomplished Ben Affleck, this film presents a riveting narrative that intertwines the worlds of sports, business, and culture, focusing on the groundbreaking partnership between Nike and Michael Jordan which led to the creation of the iconic Air Jordan brand.
Plot
‘Air’ recounts the story behind Nike’s ambitious pursuit of Michael Jordan, a then-up-and-coming basketball star, to endorse their new line of sneakers. The film captures the relentless efforts of Nike executive Sonny Vaccaro, played by Matt Damon, and Nike co-founder Phil Knight, portrayed by Ben Affleck. It’s a tale of underdog triumph and strategic risk-taking, with Nike dedicating its entire basketball division budget to secure Jordan’s endorsement.
The pivotal moment comes when Jordan’s mother, Deloris, influences his decision, leading to a landmark deal that would forever change the sports and fashion landscape. This true story not only showcases the business acumen behind the Air Jordan brand but also celebrates the genius of design and marketing that propelled it to legendary status.
Cast
The cast of ‘Air’ is a stellar assembly of talent. Matt Damon leads as Sonny Vaccaro, alongside Ben Affleck as Phil Knight. Jason Bateman, Chris Messina, and Matthew Maher also deliver compelling performances. The film features Marlon Wayans, Jay Mohr, and Julius Tennon, with Chris Tucker and Viola Davis in pivotal roles. Davis’s portrayal of Deloris Jordan is particularly noteworthy, as her character plays a crucial role in shaping the course of the narrative. This ensemble brings depth and authenticity to the story, turning it into a captivating watch.
Reviews
Don’t just take our word for it — on Rotten Tomatoes ‘Air’ has recorded a 98% Audience Score from over 2,500 reviews. Even critics dished out a 93% rating. On IMDb, it also holds a solid rating of 7.4, so you know it will be a worthwhile film to add to your watch list.
Trailer
Movie Details
- Year: 2023
- Classification: M
- Run Time: 1h 51min
Whether you’re a sports fan, a sneaker enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a well-told story, ‘Air’ is an inspiring film that deserves your attention.