My Grade: A, currently streaming on Prime Video

Plot: Follows the history of shoe salesman Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon), and how he led Nike in its pursuit of the greatest athlete in the history of basketball, Michael Jordan. -IMDB

Review: I must admit that I’m not the biggest fan of sports, but I have always been a sucker for movies about the subject. The appeal concerns the people at the center of these stories and the sacrifices made for a chance at glory and success. The latest movie by director Ben Affleck, Air, revolves around the true story of a historic deal made in 1984 that a then-struggling Nike makes to obtain Michael Jordan and secure his legacy, in the form of a sneaker famously known as the Air Jordan. Matt Damon is our protagonist as talent scout Sonny Vaccaro, who seeks out Michael Jordan and his family, led by matriarch Delores Jordan (Viola Davis), to bring the deal to Nike.

For a movie set in mostly conference rooms and offices, director Affleck paces the movie expertly, which helps accentuate the sharp dialogue provided by writer Alex Convery’s witty and heartfelt screenplay. Affleck stages the scenes in corporate offices with genuine suspense. He also assembles a talented ensemble to bring the story’s humor and heart to life. Damon gives one of his best performances and does a terrific job inviting the audience in sharing Vaccaro’s passion and desperation. The rest of the ensemble scores memorable work, including Affleck as Nike C.E.O. Phil Knight, who brings comedic zip and some memorable ‘80s fashion to the proceedings. Jason Bateman is excellent as Nike Marketing V.P. Rob Strasser and Chris Messina is a hilarious scene-stealer as Jordan’s agent David Falk. The profanity-laced exchanges between Falk and Vaccaro are among the funniest in the movie. The heart of the movie belongs to Davis, who brings warmth and strength as a mother who understands what is needed to seal the deal.

Nike is heavily featured throughout the movie, but it never feels like a long commercial for the brand because Affleck and Convery never forget about the people at the center of the story. Watching Nike portrayed as an underdog is fascinating and brings sharp focus to how vital Michael Jordan was to save the company. Most audiences may be aware of the outcome of the story, but thanks to Affleck and his creative team, we share in anxious anticipation in getting caught up in the excitement.

Affleck’s attention to the time period of 1984 is spot on, from the costume and hair choices to the propulsive soundtrack of ‘80s songs to the archival footage, he brings the decade to vivid life. The tone of the movie is reminiscent of other sports-related dramas like Jerry Maguire and Moneyball, which is great company, since these movies like this one, portray the behind-the-scenes of sports and processes in a compelling fashion.

Damon has a fantastic speech at the climax of the story, which will become an instant classic movie moment in its rousing emotion, which Damon, Affleck, and Convery pull off ingeniously. There is also a powerful scene towards the end of the movie between Davis and Damon that is unexpectedly moving because it boils down to the love of a mother for her son and understanding the value of his worth, especially what he represents as an athlete of color. Davis commands this scene like the seasoned pro she is and makes it count. Damon and Davis are the standouts in the all-star ensemble.

Affleck and his talented team have pulled off one of my favorite movies of 2023 and I look forward to what he does next as a director. This movie makes a convincing argument to always pursue the things in life one is passionate about, never waver from the naysayers, and always trust your instincts because they will guide you in the right direction.

See you at the movies!

Cristian Barros