Air
Air
The history of the game-changing partnership between a then undiscovered Michael Jordan and Nike's fledgling basketball division which revolutionized the world of sports and culture with the Air Jordan brand.
Kevin Ward reviewedJuly 3, 2025
Ben Affleck’s bare feet, Jason Bateman’s mane and Fat Damon will give me nightmares, but they manage to deliver a crowd pleasing underdog story about the genesis of the Air Jordan. Affleck’s direction plays heavily into the nostalgia of the era and even opens with a full on film-grain montage of 1984 member-berries, set to Dire Straits Money for Nothing. The needle drops continue throughout as the soundtrack is loaded with dozens of early-to-mid 80’s hits. Affleck is essentially entering the Konami Code for dad cinema. It really works, though.
Backing the nostalgia, is an excellent ensemble cast with the true all-star being Viola Davis as Deloris Jordan (Michael’s mother). Chris Tucker and Chris Messina also very good in supporting roles. Really, the only thing missing here is the man himself. There are a few scenes where Michael Jordan is technically there, but they use creative blocking with the very obvious intention of never having Michael’s face in frame. Those few moments are a little clunky in execution but at the same time, Affleck managed as best he could.
All in all Air is a very solid, crowd(dad) pleasing time at the movies. And I love seeing Damon and Affleck creating together, and Affleck back in the director’s chair again.