A24 to Produce Biopic ‘Tony’ on Chef Anthony Bourdain

News Summary

A24 is set to begin filming a biopic titled ‘Tony,’ focusing on the early years of chef Anthony Bourdain in Provincetown, Massachusetts. The film will feature Dominic Sessa as a young Bourdain and is scheduled for production from May to July. A casting call is underway for diverse restaurant workers to enhance authenticity. The film aims to portray Bourdain’s formative experiences in the culinary field, following the trend of media celebrating his legacy posthumously.

Provincetown, Massachusetts – A24 is set to produce a new biopic titled “Tony,” which will focus on the early years of renowned chef Anthony Bourdain. The film aims to portray the time Bourdain spent working in Provincetown, where he famously launched his culinary career in the 1970s.

Filming is scheduled to commence in May and will continue through early July in both Provincetown and various locations on Cape Cod. In an effort to accurately depict Bourdain’s experiences in the restaurant industry, the production team is seeking male restaurant workers from diverse ethnic backgrounds and of all ages who possess dynamic and unique personalities. While prior kitchen experience is encouraged for applicants, there is no requirement for acting experience.

Prospective cast members interested in participating are instructed to email their name, a recent photograph, and a brief personal description to the casting email address provided: TONYcasting2025@gmail.com.

Details About the Film

The film will feature Dominic Sessa portraying a young Anthony Bourdain, with direction by Matt Johnson, known for the critically acclaimed film “BlackBerry.” “Tony” will delve into Bourdain’s formative experiences in Provincetown, where he later recounted many of his culinary tales in his bestselling memoir, “Kitchen Confidential.”

This biopic is part of a broader trend of media that has emerged following Bourdain’s tragic death by suicide in 2018. Previously released works include the documentary “Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain” and “Bourdain: The Definitive Oral Biography,” both of which aimed to celebrate his life and work.

Bourdain’s Lasting Influence

Anthony Bourdain transcended the culinary world and became a household name through his television shows. He hosted multiple programs, including the acclaimed series “Parts Unknown,” which showcased global cultures and culinary practices. Bourdain was known for his candid discussions about food, culture, and his own struggles with addiction, which shaped his life and career.

Production Details and Community Involvement

A24 is renowned for its ability to produce Oscar-nominated films, and it was instrumental in securing the film rights to Bourdain’s story property after his passing. The casting call for “Tony” is also being promoted on social media platforms by Boston Casting, aiming to involve local talent from the restaurant community to enhance authenticity in the film’s portrayal.

Public Reaction

The response to the announcement of the film and its production elements has been mixed. Some critics have raised concerns regarding the ongoing exploration of Bourdain’s life and legacy after his death. Questions have been raised about the necessity and impact of continued depictions of his story in various forms of media, particularly in light of his struggles and tragic end.

As the casting call unfolds, it remains to be seen how the film will reflect Bourdain’s complex life and whether it will resonate with fans of the culinary icon and the broader audience. The team behind “Tony” aims to capture the essence of Bourdain’s early years, which laid the groundwork for his successful career and public persona.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Boston Casting Calls Open for Film and TV Projects

Additional Resources

• Boston Eater: Anthony Bourdain Biopic
• Patriot Ledger: Anthony Bourdain Biopic Casting
• Boston 25 News: Casting Call for Bourdain Film
• Wikipedia: Anthony Bourdain
• Google Search: Anthony Bourdain Biopic