NBA – Matthew Liedke on Film

The story behind how Michael Jordan chose to wear Nikes before winning six NBA titles and defeating the Monstars in “Space Jam” is revealed in “Air.”

Starring in the film is Ben Affleck, who also returned to the director’s chair for the project, teaming up with first time screenwriter Alex Convery. The film centers on talent scout Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon), who works in the basketball division for Nike, operated by CEO Phil Knight (Affleck).

A smaller company at that point, Nike doesn’t appear to have the ability to go after a ton of up and coming NBA players for shoe contracts. However, Vaccaro says Nike doesn’t need to go after a whole bunch of players, and instead, the company should give it their all to sign NCAA Champion, future Chicago Bull and eventual Hall of Famer Michael Jordan.

Continue reading “REVIEW: Deal-making in ‘Air’ has sufficient drama for a watch”

Adrenaline. Anxiety. Intense. All of these words are accurate when describing “Uncut Gems.

Adam Sandler stars as Howard Ratner in this high octane film about gambling, crime, addiction and, to an extent, survival. Howard operates a jewelry store in New York City and lives life a mile a minute. On top of his business, where he often meets with big spenders like athletes, Howard is also addicted to gambling, and is constantly making bets, and side bets for that matter.

His actions haven’t made people too happy, though. His dealings have put tremendous strain on his family and it has also made several people angry, because he owes a lot of money. At the start of the movie he learns that he might just have a big break, though, as he gets a big new gem shipment, as well as a new rich customer in Kevin Garnett.

Continue reading “REVIEW: ‘Uncut Gems’ is an unrelenting experience”