Ben Affleck and Matt Damon have shared a special friendship for over four decades, having collaborated on various film projects. The duo has now worked together once again for their latest movie project called Air, which recently premiered in Los Angeles.
About the Movie “Air”
Air is a biographical movie that follows the story of Sonny Vaccaro, the man in charge of Nike’s fledgling basketball division back in the 1980s. In an effort to boost the department’s profile, Vaccaro made a risky move by sponsoring Michael Jordan, who was then just a 21-year-old Chicago Bulls rookie. To make this happen, he had to bet the entire annual budget of Nike’s fledgling basketball division on this sponsorship deal.
Ben Affleck directed the film while Matt Damon took on one of the leading roles as well. The movie explores how Michael Jordan’s partnership with Nike led to the launch of Air Jordan sneakers and made him an international basketball star. While the story centers around Michael Jordan and his shoes, it is primarily about the people who supported him and worked hard to make his success a reality.
Working Relationship between Ben Affleck and Matt Damon
Matt Damon disclosed during the red carpet event that their relationship has not changed much over time; it has only deepened with years. He added that they are still trying to solve creative problems together as they always have been doing. The two have been friends for over 40 years and have worked together on some notable projects.
They also co-founded Artist Equity, which is their production company that will release Air next month. During an interview at the premiere event, Damon stated that they both love making movies and want to create good content through their production company.
Michael Jordan’s Blessing
Before directing Air, Ben Affleck consulted with Michael Jordan himself to get his approval. Jordan gave his blessing, provided that two other individuals be included in the story- Howard White and George Raveling.
Howard White is a Nike executive, while George Raveling is a former college basketball coach. Chris Tucker played Howard White’s role, while Marlon Wayans portrayed George Raveling in the movie. Additionally, Viola Davis played the role of Michael Jordan’s mother, Deloris Jordan.
The Premiere
During the premiere event, Ben Affleck disclosed that Michael Jordan personally requested that Viola Davis play his mother. Actors Jason Bateman and Chris Tucker also star in the movie and attended the premiere.
Both Matt Damon and Ben Affleck are thrilled about their collaboration in Air, as it tells an inspiring story about two men who believed in a vision and made it happen.
Affleck hopes that audiences will leave theaters feeling happy and inspired by the movie’s message. Finally, fans can look forward to catching Air when it releases in theaters on April 5th.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
