10 Reasons Why The Last Dance On Netflix Is Unmissable
9. It Poses An Intriguing Idea: Was Michael The Bad Guy?
A major talking point from the series has been the character assessment of Michael Jordan and the multiple anecdotes that depict him as a bully. But crucially, the show is not here to condemn, entirely. That's for you to decide.
It’s clear to see Jordan was a serial winner and admits that he has a competition problem. This is documented early in the series by a 1992 book written by Chicago Tribune sports journalist Sam Smith called ‘The Jordan Rules’. The book is focussed on Michael’s ruthless edge to win, which illustrates a culture of bullying, ostracising and psychical altercations.
Michael doesn’t hide from this side of him and at one point becomes visibly upset when addressing it. There is a fine line between winning and winning no matter what, which seemed to push Jordan from dominate teammate into borderline dictator.
Many have criticised Jordan then and now for his aggressive tendencies during the Bulls championships runs. But there is a significant Rorschach moment for the viewer to determine what they think of Michael Jordan the person rather than the player.