AIR-Michael Jordan Saves Nike at the Buzzer with Afleck and Damon

The Oscar buzz around AIR, the film about how the yet unbeknownst to most, basketball legend Michael Jordan, saved Nike from impending bankruptcy while scoring a staggering compensation deal, hits the rim but doesn't quite go in.  Not to say that AIR, based on true events, isn't a pleasant diversion worth watching from home. There is plenty to root for despite its languid pace as a feel good movie about tenacity, teamwork and trust.  In 1984, Nike was trailing in the sneaker war behind Adidas and Converse and desperate for a celebrity endorsement that would ascend the trailing company back to a top tier contender.  Affleck and Damon reunite with their winning combination of likable story and characters.  Damon portrays Sonny Vaccaro, a basketball aficionado with a penchant for gambling on sports.  Vaccaro is hot on the trail for the next player to dominate the league to recruit for Nike's ads.  Affleck directs and stars as Phil Knight, the founder and CEO of the floundering company.  Knight is responsible for hiring Vaccaro but skeptical of Vaccaro's full-on press to recruit Jordan, especially with the entire allocated budged riding on him.  Affleck exudes charm without creating a cocky CEO who knows best.  Lest, we forget Jordan, the apex of the film but barely has any screen time.  As director, Affleck makes some shrewd calls.  Keeping Jordan at bay was smart as the camera aligns with Vaccaro's relentless pursuit of Jordan.  Interjecting typed, pithy work ethic mottos was an airball.  The ensemble cast brought their A games from the bench.  The always reliable Viola Davis plays Jordan's mother.  Jason Bateman is terrific as Nike executive Rob Strasser and Chris Messina as Jordan's irascible sports agent, David Falk, runs interference on Vaccaro for some needed comic relief. Although, not intended as a serious business flick or comedy pick, AIR manages to soar by skillfully combining the two genres.  Vaccaro's all in modus operandi grows on you as his co-workers become convinced of his plan and a collaborative crew and strategy develop.  This trust is especially moving knowing Vaccaro is putting everyone's futures at risk.  There are no big surprises or emotional payoffs.  Still, AIR foots the bill as a disarming movie that doesn't hit greatness.