Ben Affleck’s latest directorial effort, AIR, leads me to believe that he is currently and will continue to follow closely in the footsteps of Hollywood legend and icon Clint Eastwood as he matures and shifts seamlessly between portraying and directing characters. His latest foray in directing this illustrious cast and portraying Nike founder CEO Phil Knight is a prime example of this journey. Matt Damon, his longtime friend, delivers as the genius Sonny Vaccaro, the driving force behind the concept of Air Jordans, with a wonderfully nuanced performance. Perhaps not Oscar worthy but strong and compelling nonetheless.

The movie, IMHO (I guess I really don’t have to use this acronym as everyone knows that these reviews are my opinion! LOL), soars far above what could have become a mundane ‘story about shoes’ or yet ‘another sports flick.’ This is not a basketball version of The Red Shoes! (Could not resist as I am not a fan at all of that film.)

Alex Convery’s script creates a dialogue that resoundingly rings true not only for the characters but for the times and the business environment and climate he strives to represent and which he does with a deft hand to language usage with no apologies for the oft-used F-bombs and other vulgarities. None are gratuitous or used for shock values, rather they represent what must have been the reality of those character’s language. To be honest, I am not the least bit offended by swearing or other termed ‘vulgar’ language but I do adhere to the rule that it must avoided in front of young impressionable children and some personas of polite society! I reserve the right to determine which personas! LOL

And all the supporting characters are brilliant. Viola Davis, as always, mesmerizes you with a beautifully crafted character as Michael’s mother Deloris Jordan; Chris Messina as the agent, delivers an epic meltdown scene. Not to be overlooked are Jason Bateman and Chris Tucker, both vital to the storyline.

Is this 5 stars and Oscar-worthy? Only time will tell. I say 4.5 stars!

Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !


These are Amazon’s best-selling travel products that you may need for coming to Paris.

Bookstore

  1. The best travel book : Rick Steves – Paris 2023 – Learn more here
  2. Fodor’s Paris 2024 – Learn more here

Travel Gear

  1. Venture Pal Lightweight Backpack – Learn more here
  2. Samsonite Winfield 2 28″ Luggage – Learn more here
  3. Swig Savvy’s Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle – Learn more here

Check Amazon’s best-seller list for the most popular travel accessories. We sometimes read this list just to find out what new travel products people are buying.