A24 released the first official trailer Tuesday for "Tony," a biopic chronicling the life and career of late chef Anthony Bourdain [1, 2, 3].
The film aims to provide a gritty origin story of the man who became a global icon of food and travel. By focusing on Bourdain's early years, the production explores the formative experiences that shaped his rebellious approach to the culinary world [4, 5].
Dominic Sessa portrays the title character, capturing the energy of the young chef. According to reports, the narrative highlights a pivotal moment when Sessa's character secures a restaurant job at age 19 [6]. Entertainment Tonight said Sessa "transforms into late kitchen rebel Anthony Bourdain in this biopic" [1].
Directed by Matt Johnson, the project features a supporting cast that includes Antonio Banderas, Emilia Jones, and Leo Woodall [1, 6, 7]. The trailer, which debuted on YouTube, emphasizes the high-pressure environment of professional kitchens and Bourdain's ascent within that industry [1, 2].
The film is scheduled to open in theaters across the U.S. in August 2026 [1, 8]. A24 has not yet released a specific date for the premiere, but the trailer serves as the primary promotional launch for the summer season [8].
Bourdain's legacy as a chef, author, and traveler continues to influence global food culture. This biopic seeks to translate that influence into a cinematic format, focusing on the professional struggles and personal growth of his early career [4, 5].
“Dominic Sessa transforms into late kitchen rebel Anthony Bourdain in this biopic.”
The release of 'Tony' represents A24's attempt to capture the cultural zeitgeist of the late Anthony Bourdain, moving beyond his later travelogue fame to examine the professional volatility of the culinary industry. By focusing on his early adulthood, the film positions Bourdain not just as a celebrity, but as a symbol of the 'kitchen rebel' archetype, potentially attracting audiences interested in both gastronomy and character-driven cinema.
