Have you ever had a gut feeling that something was going to pay off? That’s exactly what Matt Damon’s Sonny Vaccaro character is battling in AIR, the upcoming movie from Amazon Studios about Nike signing Michael Jordan to an exclusive contract. The movie takes you on a rollercoaster experience as the characters make bold moves in the world of sports and business before Nike was a household name in sports. I had the honor of attending an early screening of AIR on Monday, and I have to say, it’s a engaging and thrilling ride from start to finish.
AIR is a period piece set in the 1980’s basketball shoe world, but don’t be fooled into thinking it’s only for sports fans. Yes there are quips that any regular viewer of “NBA on TNT” would appreciate, but the appeal of AIR is more than that. The film is actually more of an underdog story about taking chances and betting big when you feel it in your ‘gut’ – Just Do It as Nike would say. It’s like a modern-day Moneyball with some of the statistics focus replaced with character humor. The cast is truly all-star, featuring some of the most talented actors in Hollywood- Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Jason Bateman, Viola Davis, and Chris Tucker.
One thing that struck me about AIR was its indie feel, despite the big-name cast. The sets and costumes are efficient but not too flashy. The humor is great, the pacing is strong, and the story is engaging. It’s a fun combination of a period piece, sports drama, and underdog business movie. And while it may not fit neatly into any one genre, it all comes together in a way that feels fresh and exciting.
If you’re looking for a movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat, AIR is definitely worth a watch. It’s a great reminder that sometimes, taking a chance and trusting your instincts can pay off in a big way. I give AIR a 10/10 and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great movie. AIR is now in theaters!
