Film Review: "Air"

 

Ben Affleck’s career trajectory has been interesting to watch unfold. He has had some epic highs (The Town, Argo) and lows (Justice League, Batman Vs Superman: Dawn of Justice, Live By Night).  No matter the quality of his starring or directorial efforts, fans are always eager to see what he does next.  Air is a welcome return for the director, though it does not reach the heights of his best work.  The film follows Nike salesman Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon) attempting to sign Michael Jordan. The story could lead many to believe Air is simply a celebration of the Nike brand for two hours. While not incorrect, it is an effective “behind-the-scenes” sports story.

Affleck’s direction and the screenplay by Alex Convery are the film's biggest strengths.  The 112-minute running time maintains fast-paced and exciting energy throughout.   Filled with business conversations, that can be difficult to make entertaining for audiences.  Convery’s screenplay wisely never gives the audience moments to breathe between these conversations. That pacing builds tension and helps viewers understand the mentality of Damon’s character and his “hustler” ambitions.  During this time of Nike’s struggle, it’s a wise choice to connect audiences with the seriousness and importance of this deal. 

The supporting performances also help maintain the film's consistent lively energy. Actors like Jason Bateman, Marlon Wayans, and Chris Tucker, provide needed levity. The same could be said for Affleck as Nike head Phil Knight, who delivers a fun and knowingly over-the-top performance. Viola Davis steals the entire movie anytime she appears on the screen. According to Ben Affleck, her casting as Deloris Jordan was Michael Jordan’s sole request. It was a wise choice as Davis makes her character a force of nature.  Such a powerful performance is the film's heart, and it shines brightly.  

Davis makes the most of a character who could be cliched in the wrong actor's hands.  Her power in the film comes from the subtlety conveyed in every scene. Her portrayal of Deloris Jordan is the equivalent of an unshakable force. Sequences of the Jordan family (her husband played by Davis’s real-life partner Jules Tennon) facing executives shows her character's might and intellect. It’s a nuanced portrayal of a loving and determined mother that sports fans or non-fans will understand and relate to. These meetings could be considered dull but Davis’s mere presence in these scenes will keep you engaged.  Where Air tends to lose steam is in the cliched and typical sports movie moments. 

Air maintains very old-fashioned sensibilities in regard to its filmmaking style. This includes lots of 80s songs, decor, and period-specific clothing.  Affleck is stuffing plenty of nostalgia over its running time which will be enough for some.  Others might feel serious fatigue by the time the credits roll.  The stories' consistent energy mixed with sports cliches does not offer a refreshing perspective.  Audiences know the outcome, but that does not save the third act “revelations” and character speeches from feeling overly familiar.

Cliched moments in the third act do not detract from the film's effective pacing. Convery makes these conversations engaging, without ever feeling repetitive. Combined with Affleck's direction, the cast helps to elevate more predictable moments. Air won’t reinvent the wheel but delivers old-school cinematic thrills even with a known outcome.