Tony is an utterly captivating and inspiring true-life story that serves up emotion, humour and unforgettable performances in equal measure. Richly atmospheric and beautifully crafted, this compelling biographical coming-of-age drama is a heartfelt celebration of discovering passion, purpose and the courage to follow your dreams.
Set during the summer of 1976, the film follows 19-year-old Anthony Bourdain as he drifts to Provincetown, Massachusetts, where an unexpected job in a bustling restaurant kitchen changes the course of his life forever. Under the guidance of an experienced chef and surrounded by an eclectic group of co-workers, Tony discovers discipline, creativity and a lifelong love of food that will ultimately shape his extraordinary future. Stylishly directed by Matt Johnson, the film combines evocative period detail, vibrant cinematography and authentic character moments with themes of ambition, self-discovery, friendship, honesty and perseverance.
Dominic Sessa, acclaimed for The Holdovers (2023), delivers a stunningly charismatic lead performance alongside Antonio Banderas, star of The Mask of Zorro (1998), while Emilia Jones, celebrated for CODA (2021), brings warmth and charm to the story. Early reviews have warmly praised the film's engaging storytelling, Sessa's standout performance and its fresh, intimate portrayal of a pivotal chapter in Anthony Bourdain's life, making it an uplifting and memorable cinematic experience.
If you enjoyed Julie & Julia (2009) and The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014) then you are likely to enjoy Tony.
