The Ben Affleck-directed film Air is currently receiving critical acclaim after premiering at SXSW this past month. The film is an American biographical sports drama and stars Matt Damon, Affleck, Jason Bateman, Marlon Wayans, Chris Messina, Chris Tucker and Viola Davis. Its plot chronicles the origin of the Air Jordan shoe line; a Nike, Inc. employee seeks to strike a business deal with rookie basketball player and future icon Michael Jordan.
Tucker plays Howard White, the now vice president of Jordan Brand. He has been with the company for forty years. Although Tucker already knew who White was since meeting at a Michael Jordan golf tournament, the actor says he learned a lot about the man who helped the Jordan brand become what it is today. Tucker did so much research that Affleck allowed him to write his own parts throughout the film.
For Tucker, starring in Air is a full-circle moment. The comedian, like so many, was a “sneakerhead” growing up. He mentions his first pair of Jordans and having to pay for them with cash throughout the 90s. Air is scheduled to release on April 5 and has a 100 percent Rotten Tomatoes score.
Check out our interview below and learn more about Tucker’s role and why he feels entrepreneurs should watch the film.
