When the king speaks, the people listen and obey. Especially when that king is named Michael Jordan, a true living legend of basketball. The subject of numerous documentaries, the latter has also dabbled as an actor, most notably with his campy role in the comedy Space Jam.
Considered by director Ben Affleck as the only actor who could play himself in a biopic, Michael Jordan only appears in the background (in the “characteristics” of young actor Damian Delano Young) in the feature film Air, which takes place in the early 80s, when the future number 23 of the Chicago Bulls He was just a rookie who had yet to make his professional NBA debut.
Viola Davies was personally selected by Her Airness
Although he was not directly involved in the production of the film, Michael Jordan was still asked for permission to use his name and tell a part of his life. His deal didn’t require an astronomical sum of money, but the latter did require one thing: that his mother, Deloris, be played by Viola Davis.
“take my breath away” The American actress responded when she learned the anecdote during a preview of the film, revealing that she was happy to get the role before learning that it was personally chosen by Michael Jordan (source: people). Fun fact: The role of James Jordan Sr. – Michael’s father in the movie is played by Julius Tennon, none other than Viola Davis’ real husband!
This request did not cause any problems for Ben Affleck, on the contrary, because the latter was delighted with the remarks he gave. variety opportunity to lead “The best actor in the world”.
Howard White is played by Chris Tucker in the film
In addition to choosing his mother’s interpreter in the film, Michael Jordan also asked the producers not to exclude Howard White, a famous member of Nike in the early 80s, now the vice president of the Jordan brand. . The role also allowed Ben Affleck to fulfill a long-held desire to work with comedian Chris Tucker.
Air by and with Ben Affleck is now available on Amazon Prime Video.
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Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
