Why Fans Can’t Stop Talking About A24’s Anthony Bourdain Biopic, 'TONY'

A24’s ‘TONY’ biopic has everyone talking...from Anthony Bourdain superfans to casual movie‑goers. What shocking predictions are fans making about the future of ‘TONY’?

by Leo Fenton - May 12 2026

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2026 is shaping up to be a powerful year for A24, with movies like The Drama, The Moment, and the upcoming Backrooms film.

These are just a few of the enthralling titles and films fans have been looking forward to. In addition, A24 recently dropped the first trailer for the upcoming biopic TONY, which tells the story that got infamous chef and world-traveler Anthony Bourdain (played by Dominic Sessa) into the kitchen full-time.

This movie, produced and directed by Matt Johnson, known for Blackberry, The Dirties, and most recently, Nirvanna The Band The Show The Movie, has been a high contender for the most anticipated movie of the year.

However, audiences are hesitant about this film, as culturally, many feel we’re in a time of an "overload" of biopics, with a much higher amount in the last couple of years, including Michael, A Complete Unknown, Elvis, Ferrari, and Oppenheimer, to name a few.

On the other hand, many fans followingJohnson into this next project are concerned about his specific directorial style, with the loss of his signature cameraman, Jared Raab.

The TONY trailer opens with vastly different cinematography, with many users online pointing this out.

"Just watched the tony trailer and I immediately miss Jared Raabs cinematography style," wrote a fan on X.

just watched the tony trailer and i immediately miss jared raabs cinematography style pic.twitter.com/D6kKhU6Ogo
— glup shitto ☾ (@ntbtstwt) May 5, 2026

Others praise Sessa in the role, considering it his breakout role, as he had only been cast in four films before this, his first being The Holdovers in 2023.

"Sessa is looking to be the real deal. His performance, already, seems incredible. Movie looks a little more traditional from what I’ve come to expect from Johnson," said a fan. "But there’s flavour there. I’m excited to check it out."

Sessa is looking to be the real deal. His performance, already, seems incredible. Movie looks a little more traditional from what I’ve come to expect from Johnson, but there’s flavour there. I’m excited to check it out. https://t.co/BEam26As37
— Rolo Tony (@PoorOldRoloTony) May 5, 2026

Overall, the majority seems to have high hopes for this film and the cast and crew around it, looking forward to an “Anthony Bourdain summer." Will you be watching? Let us know your Fan of View below or by sending us a message on social media @fandomdaily_.

Photo credit: Entertainment Weekly

Jake

10 hours ago

love this! I’m so excited for the movie :))
- Sydney
  
  10 hours ago
  
  Great article! I can’t wait to see Tony this summer!
  - Katherine
    
    8 hours ago
    
    So excited for Tony
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