( ENSPIRE Entertainment ) The New Movie Trailer Excites Audiences Sharing the story of Nike’s Foundational Relationship with Michael Jordan
ENSPIRE Contributor: Cailin Tennis
Although the trailer was released a few weeks prior, audiences were captivated by the trailer, aired during the Super Bowl, for Matt Damon and Ben Affleck’s new movie titled “AIR.” The plot centers on Nike’s business deal with Michael Jordan that shifted the world of sports, business, and culture all at the same time. It’s incredible how one creative business decision in the mid-’80s has led to billions of dollars of shoe sales, a total reinvention of fashion, and the creation of an immensely powerful sports community. This movie aims to unpack this risky, yet incredibly lucrative story starring a stacked cast including Viola Davis, Marlon Wayans, Jason Bateman, Chris Messina, Chris Tucker, and more.
Most of us today tout Michael Jordan as a household name, but that wasn’t always the case. At one point he was a rookie, a very lucky rookie, who caught the eye of Sonny Vaccaro, played by Matt Damon. This changed both Nike and Jordan forever, as they launched an entire line of shoes around a single, incredible player. The trailer gives a hint to this invigorating plot, leaving audiences already on the edge of their seats after only 2 minutes and 16 seconds.
Also shown in the trailer are the iconic red Nike Air Jordan 1 sneakers, which just years ago in 2020 were sold at auction for an unbelievable $560,000 since they were a game-worn pair of shoes signed by Jordan. There is no actor explicitly playing the character of Michael Jordan, although curious eyes can turn to his docuseries “The Last Dance,” which touches more on his relationship with Nike, as well as his basketball journey.
The movie also sheds light on Nike’s interactions with Jordan’s family, played by Viola Davis and Julius Tennon, which has a heart-warming, yet powerful air. At one point, Damon’s character shrugs, “A shoe is just a shoe,” to which Davis (playing Michael Jordan’s mother) responds, “Until my son steps into it.” This relentless confidence in her son speaks to the difficulties and extreme dedication required of motherhood. In a sports film, this isn’t always so common, which is yet another reason AIR hopes to connect with its viewers.
Eager to see the entire adrenaline-dusted movie, audiences must wait until its premiere on April 5th, 2023. Critics can’t help but wonder if this film might leave its critically acclaimed cast and production team with Oscar nominations in their hands. Watch the trailer below.
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