A not-so-typical biopic detailing the life of chef, author and TV presenter Anthony Bourdain is set to hit screens this August.
The first trailer from the A24 movie, Tony, dropped earlier this week and provided an insight into what fans of the icon can expect.
The film’s plot reads: “A 19-year-old Anthony Bourdain travels to Provincetown and stumbles into the chaotic world of a restaurant kitchen, setting off a summer that will shape the course of his life.”
Dominic Sessa, who shot to fame after his role in The Holdovers, will star as a young Anthony Bourdain, alongside Antonio Banderas as Ciro, the chef and restaurant owner who chooses to mentor Tony, Emilia Jones as Nancy, Bourdain’s love interest, as well as Leo Woodall and Stavros Halkias, who play fellow restaurant workers.
Matt Johnson directs, from a script by Todd Bartels and Lou Howe.
The film is inspired by Bourdain’s book Kitchen Confidential, which details his journey into the culinary world and exposes the gritty reality of professional kitchens.
Bourdain starred in programs focusing on the exploration of international culture, travel, cuisine, and the human condition. He died by suicide in 2018 but continues to inspire people with his documentaries, such as Parts Unknown and his outlook on life. In his book, Kitchen Confidential, he said: “Your body is not a temple, it’s an amusement park. Enjoy the ride.”
On YouTube, fans shared their excitement and anticipation ahead of the film’s release.
One said: “I’m seated. The theatre employees are scared and asking me to leave because it ‘hasn’t even started filming yet’ but I’m simply too seated.”
Another added: “Anthony Bourdain loved the world and loved the people all over the world more than he loved himself. He wasn’t just a chef; he was an explorer, he was every stranger’s friend, he did not judge, he was infatuated with people, he shared so many meals with people who couldn’t speak the same language, but speaking wasn’t how he communicated; it was through food, drinks, and sharing his time with the world. I wish I could’ve met him. I wish society were more like him. This movie better do him justice.”
Kodak movies predicted that the film “could be a masterpiece” and the “best ever” biopic.
Tony is set to be released in August.
