Air (film, 2023)
Released in 2023, Ben Affleck's film "Air" tells the story of how Nike signed a deal with rising star Michael Jordan in the 1980s.
The plot revolves around Nike shoe salesman Sonny Vaccaro, played by Matt Damon, who managed to secure a partnership by proposing to Jordan to create a namesake brand and develop a line of sneakers specifically for him.
From the moment it was announced, "Air" promised to be a great film. Firstly, it marks Ben Affleck's directorial comeback after his stellar films like "The Town" and "Argo." Critics have also been singing praises for "Air," predicting its active participation in the upcoming awards season. Therefore, for me, Affleck's drama, based on real events, became one of the most anticipated films of the year.
Set in the 1980s, Nike is struggling, overshadowed by competitors like Adidas and Converse. Sonny Vaccaro, an enthusiast and the company's dark horse, sees an opportunity to make Nike number one in the sneaker market by signing then-rising star Michael Jordan. His plan involves outmaneuvering competitors and convincing the boss, along with other colleagues, of the possibility of signing this groundbreaking deal, which later became the most significant collaboration between a brand and a player, leading to Michael Jordan's status as the greatest basketball player of all time.
Ben Affleck directed, produced, and even starred in this film, and he excelled in all aspects, extracting the maximum from the story of a single deal.
The direction is superb – something one would expect from Affleck. He masterfully tells a classic and motivational story of an underdog rising to success. It's a textbook biopic, complete with historical background, the characters' subsequent destinies revealed during the credits, and many clichés, but with Affleck's soul poured into every scene.
The film feels like a blast from the past: simple and straightforward yet not primitive. It doesn't attempt to be groundbreaking or delve into complex or socially significant themes. Instead, it works as it should – delivering emotions and inspiration, leaving viewers with overwhelmingly positive feelings.
In its simplicity lies the elegance and sincerity of the film. "Air" is simply heartfelt and feel-good cinema, capable of motivating and uplifting.
With its warmth, sincerity, and uplifting message, the film bears a striking resemblance to the cult classic "Jerry Maguire" from the 90s starring Tom Cruise, a film I adore, hence my enthusiasm for "Air."
Special mention goes to the film's ensemble cast. Ben Affleck stands out in his role as the slightly eccentric and colorful Nike boss. He steals the show, and his character is the most memorable, capable of bringing a smile to every scene. It was also pleasant to see one of my childhood actors, Chris Tucker, who may not have been in the spotlight lately, but "Air" could change that – Chris delivered a very vivid and charismatic performance.
I also enjoyed Chris Messina's portrayal, who may not be as famous as his co-stars but certainly holds his own in terms of acting. His role as Michael Jordan's agent is impeccable.
As for Matt Damon, Viola Davis, and Jason Bateman, their strong performances go without saying. They simply don't know how to give anything less.
As for the film's chances in the awards race, they are enormous. Affleck could very likely be nominated for directing and a supporting role. Seeing Tucker at the awards would also be delightful. The screenplay is also solid and deserves recognition. And, of course, "Air" rightfully deserves its place among the top ten contenders for the best film of the year. In my opinion, it would be entirely fair, as I am already prepared to include "Air" in the list of the best films of the year, thanks to its heartfelt, straightforward, and effective storytelling, which feels like a source of strength.
Thank you, Ben Affleck!