Ben Affleck made an executive decision. Air, which opens in theatres on Wednesday, was originally intended to focus on Michael Jordan before Jordan shifted the producers’ attention to his relatives and coaches.
The story of Air takes place in 1984 when Nike executive Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon) convinces Jordan to be the brand ambassador of Nike’s basketball sneakers. Jordan does not appear in the film.
Air Jordans continued to be popular long after Jordan left the NBA in 2003. The film depicts how Vacarro had to first persuade Nike CEO Phil Knight (Ben Affleck) to believe Jordan was the best choice before convincing Jordan to join Nike.
Ben Affleck Said Jordan Took Away The Attention From Air
Ben Affleck was impressed by how much Jordan spoke about the different individuals in his entourage at a meeting in Florida. Marlon Wayans played Coach George Raveling, who became a character.
Jordan also mentioned Nike’s vice president of sports affairs, Howard White, who is portrayed by Chris Tucker in the film Air.
However, when Affleck inquired about Jordan’s parents, he realized James (Julius Tennon) and Deloris Jordan (Viola Davis) were protagonists in the Air Jordan tale. “When he spoke about his mom, I saw awe, reverence, respect, and adoration,” Affleck added.
“It’s about Deloris Jordan and how much she means to Michael.” When Affleck asked Jordan who he believed could play his mother, Jordan said Davis was his first pick. Davis admitted that the personal request was scary, but she set to work investigating Deloris.
“If you watch Deloris Jordan videos, she’s a study in zen neutrality,” Davis added. “The woman is really calm and stable. Even when she’s angry, I suppose she’s extremely steady.”
Adidas and Converse have also made offers to Deloris fields. Michael is uninterested in Nike, while Deloris sees potential in the firm.
