Ben Affleck is directing and starring in an upcoming film named “Air.” It follows the story of how Michael Jordan’s family and executives at Nike turned Jordan into a revolutionary brand and sneaker.
Affleck plays former Nike CEO Phil Knight.
Before making the movie, Affleck wanted to get Jordan’s blessing, so he asked to meet up. Unsurprising, Jordan invited Affleck out to his golf course, The Grove XXIII, in Hobe Sound, Florida.
“Went out, met with him,” Affleck told The Hollywood Reporter. “I waited for him to finish playing. I don’t golf myself. Because I just feel like it eats people’s lives up.
“I look at golf like meth. They have better teeth, but it doesn’t seem like people ever come out of that. Once they start golfing, you just don’t ever see them again.”
Viola Davis is playing Jordan’s mother while Matt Damon, Chris Tucker and Jason Bateman are playing Nike execs.
Ben Affleck stopped by NBA All-Star media day to discuss his upcoming film "Air", which recounts Nike's pursuit of Michael Jordan in the 80's. However, you won't see Jordan in the movie, Affleck explains why… pic.twitter.com/NPYOA5G25z
— USA TODAY Sports (@usatodaysports) February 18, 2023
‘Air’ hits theaters on May 5.