Canadian director Matt Johnson appeared relaxed just days before his wedding and the start of filming his upcoming movie, “Tony,” a biopic focusing on the early life of chef and TV personality Anthony Bourdain. Johnson expressed ease in approaching Bourdain’s story, despite the chef’s iconic status following his tragic death in 2018.
Johnson initially had no plans to make a film about Bourdain but changed his mind after meeting actor Dominic Sessa, who portrays Bourdain in the movie. The script draws from Bourdain’s book “Kitchen Confidential,” condensing stories from his youth into a narrative set during his first summer working as a chef in Provincetown, Mass.
By focusing on Bourdain’s early years, Johnson aimed to avoid the pressure of portraying the well-known figure many fans idolize. The director highlighted the film’s exploration of Bourdain’s childhood complexities, relationships, and self-perception as he entered adulthood. “Tony” is set to premiere in Canadian theaters on August 14.
The director emphasized the collaboration between himself, Sessa, and Bourdain’s essence in bringing the story to life, creating a narrative that resonates with those who admire the late chef.