‘Tony’ Writers Talk Honoring Anthony Bourdain, Capturing ‘70s-Era Cape Cod And Getting ‘Jaws’ Permission From Spielberg
The early life of culinary bad boy Anthony Bourdain takes center stage in the new biopic 'Tony.'
Todd Bartels and Lou Howe, screenwriters, were inspired to pitch a biopic about Anthony Bourdain after recognizing his connections and influential role as a writer, traveler, and raconteur. They focused on the summer of 1974, when Bourdain was a dishwasher and prep cook at a local restaurant in Provincetown, Cape Cod, as it marked a pivotal point in his life when he discovered his calling.
The duo aimed to create a coming-of-age story that depicted Bourdain as more than just a cook or traveler, but as a guru who challenged himself to find his purpose in life. The estate of Anthony Bourdain, however, initially required them to develop more material beyond a traditional New England clam bake before they could move forward.
To gain the required insights, Bartels and Howe visited Provincetown (or "P-town") themselves, spending two days at Bourdain's favorite hangout, the Old Colony Tap, where they talked to locals, particularly a bartender named Jill, who described the town as a magical place for misfits. This added authenticity to their research. Besides capturing the essence of '70s Cape Cod, the pair wanted to explore Bourdain's transformation and the reasons behind his immense popularity despite his self-deprecating demeanor.
The screenwriters acknowledged Bourdain's complex personality and ensured the movie portrayed his flaws and warts, a crucial aspect that made the character feel more genuine. The screenplay was initially written on spec, with the support of Bourdain's literary agent, Kim Witherspoon, who encouraged them to embrace the less flattering aspects of his personality.
The duo then secured the interest of veteran producers Tim and Trevor White, who brought the project to the attention of prestigious talent agency CAA. This led to the casting of Matt Johnson and Dominic Sessa as director and star, respectively. A dedicated writers' room was formed by the four credited writers, who brainstormed and discussed various possibilities for the film.
The result is Tony, a biopic that delves deep into the life and experiences of Anthony Bourdain, providing an honest and unfiltered portrayal of the man behind the culinary icon.
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