Antonio Banderas Discusses His Role in Anthony Bourdain Biopic

TORINO, Italy — Antonio Banderas recently shared insights into his role as a mentor in the upcoming biopic about renowned chef Anthony Bourdain. The film, titled ‘Tony’ and directed by Matt Johnson, reimagines Bourdain’s life as an aimless young man.

Banderas spoke about the unique filming experience at the Torino Film Festival, highlighting the challenges he faced while shooting in Cape Cod and Newport. ‘We spent a month and a half filming in Cape Cod and Newport, constantly surrounded by the smell of fish,’ he said while laughing. ‘Every time I came back to the hotel, I had to shower because I absolutely reeked — I was cleaning fish every single day!’

In the film, Banderas portrays a Brazilian-born restaurateur who becomes a mentor to a young Tony, played by breakout star Dominic Sessa from ‘The Holdovers.’ Banderas explained that their relationship is central to the story, stating, ‘Through this relationship, Tony begins to truly learn how to cook. So the film is not just about cuisine or culinary techniques; it’s about his life, his identity, and his way of being — shaped by this unique mentor.’

Unlike the real Bourdain, who started his career as a dishwasher, Banderas’ character is a composite figure. ‘My character studied at the finest institutions, graduating from the best gastronomy schools, yet he always remained an outsider,’ Banderas noted. ‘He created his own restaurant outside the traditional world of elite chefs, developing his own dishes with ingredients accessible to ordinary communities — simple food for everyday people.’

While visiting Turin to receive a lifetime achievement award, Banderas emphasized the importance of mentors in his life and career. ‘I am a theater actor,’ he explained. ‘Cinema came by chance, thanks to Pedro Almodóvar — a ‘chance’ that led to 130 films.’

Reflecting on influential figures, he described the impact of Paul Newman, who Banderas met while performing in New York. ‘One day I was on stage, singing, and at a certain point, I saw Paul Newman with those eyes staring at me. I froze completely — it was incredibly powerful,’ he recalled.

As ‘Tony’ prepares for its release, it promises to delve deep into Bourdain’s early struggles with writing, depression, and drug addiction, ultimately reshaping the narrative of his remarkable life.