Trailer for “Tony”
The trailer has been released for A24’s film “Tony,” based on the life of Anthony Bourdain, featuring performances by Dominic Sessa, Emilia Jones, Leo Woodall, and Antonio Banderas. The film is directed by Matt Johnson.
The late chef, author, and travel host Anthony Bourdain once described himself in blunt terms: “Frankly, I was a spoiled, miserable, narcissistic, self-destructive, thoughtless young man who really needed a good ass-kicking.” This self-reflection sets the stage for the new film from A24.
The story unfolds in the summer of 1975, centered around a 19-year-old writer named Tony, played by breakout star Dominick Sessa. He eagerly applies for a prestigious fellowship that he’s convinced he deserves—but he doesn’t actually receive it.
After telling his parents he’s won the scholarship, he chooses instead to travel to Cape Cod to pursue a crush, Nancy (Emilia Jones, known for “CODA”). Nancy’s struggles with her own career ambitions come to light, and Tony soon realizes that winning her over may not be as simple as he imagined—especially since he can’t even reach her.
Tony, needing both financial support and somewhere to stay, finds himself at the mercy of a chef in Provincetown, portrayed by Antonio Banderas, who gives him a job washing dishes at a small lobster shop.
The dynamics between carefree Tony and the serious chef are stark. However, what Tony doesn’t foresee is the significant impact working in the kitchen will have on his life.
In the realm of comedy, it’s becoming quite the challenge for directors to join the ranks of established filmmakers like Judd Apatow or Paul Feig. Matt Johnson is stepping up to assert his place within this elite circle.
Johnson, a Canadian comedy actor known for his work on the film “Blackberry” and the mockumentary “Nirvana: The Band Show the Movie,” takes on multiple roles in this film, co-writing it alongside Matthew Miller, Todd Bartels, and Lou Howe. They skillfully blend Bourdain’s humor with his early personal struggles.
Dominic Sessa brings a multi-faceted portrayal, managing to evoke laughter, annoyance, and empathy, all of which resonate with Bourdain’s complex nature. On the other hand, Banderas delivers a remarkable performance as Tony’s tough mentor, contributing some of the film’s most humorous yet poignant moments.
Verdict
“Tony” serves as an engaging coming-of-age drama that explores how Anthony Bourdain evolved into the beloved personality known worldwide. Fans of Bourdain are likely to appreciate this depiction. Both Sessa and Banderas give standout performances, while Johnson continues to enhance his reputation as an emerging talent in the comedy genre.
★★★ — Stream later
“Tony” is rated R for frequent strong language, drug use, and sexual content/nudity. The film runs for 1 hour and 46 minutes and is currently showing in theaters.
