Tony is an upcoming biographical comedy-drama film directed by Matt Johnson and inspired by the early life of legendary chef and writer Anthony Bourdain. The movie stars Dominic Sessa as a 19-year-old Anthony Bourdain, alongside Antonio Banderas, Leo Woodall, Emilia Jones, and Stavros Halkias. The film follows a young Bourdain during a transformative summer in Provincetown, Massachusetts, where he discovers the fast-paced and unpredictable world of professional kitchens.
Set in 1976, Tony explores the experiences that helped shape Bourdain’s future career as a chef, author, and television personality. The story blends humor, drama, and coming-of-age themes while showcasing the intense restaurant culture that influenced his life. The movie is scheduled to be released in theaters on September 18, 2026, and is distributed by A24.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Tony |
| Genre | Biography, Comedy, Drama |
| Director/Writer | Matt Johnson, Todd Bartels, Lou Howe |
| Starring | Dominic Sessa, Antonio Banderas, Leo Woodall, Emilia Jones, Stavros Halkias |
| Age Rating | R |
| Release Date | September 18, 2026 |
| Distributor | A24 |
Tony Age Rating
Tony is officially rated R by the Motion Picture Association for pervasive language, drug use, and sexual content/nudity.
The R rating reflects the film’s realistic portrayal of the restaurant industry during the 1970s. Throughout the movie, characters frequently use strong profanity, including repeated use of explicit language. The story also includes scenes involving recreational drug use, alcohol consumption, and adult relationships. Several scenes contain sexual content and nudity, which contribute to the film’s mature rating.
An R rating means that the movie contains material intended for mature audiences. Parents are strongly cautioned because some content may be inappropriate for viewers under 17. Younger audiences may find the language, substance use, and adult themes unsuitable.
Is Tony Suitable for Kids?
Tony is not suitable for young children or most teenagers. The movie focuses on adult experiences and includes strong language, drug use, sexual situations, and mature themes. These elements are central to the story and reflect Anthony Bourdain’s early experiences in the restaurant world.
Older teens may appreciate the film’s coming-of-age story and historical setting, but parents should understand that the mature content is significant. For most families, Tony is best suited for viewers aged 17 and older.
Age-by-Suitability Table
| Age Group | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Ages 3-7 | No, not suitable for young children. |
| Ages 8-12 | No, not recommended for this age group. |
| Teens (13-15) | Not recommended due to strong language, drug use, and sexual content. |
| Teens (16-17) | Viewer discretion advised. Mature older teens may watch with parental guidance. |
| Adults | Yes, suitable for mature audiences. |
Tony Parents Guide
Tony tells the story of a young Anthony Bourdain as he navigates a chaotic restaurant environment and discovers the passions that will shape his future. The film contains mature situations and themes that are intended for adult viewers.
- Sex & Nudity: The movie includes sexual content, romantic situations, and nudity. Some scenes depict intimate relationships and adult behavior. Sexual references are also present throughout the film.
- Violence & Gore: Violence is limited, but there are moments of workplace aggression, heated confrontations, shouting, and physical intimidation. The stressful kitchen environment creates a constant sense of tension. Graphic violence and gore are not major elements.
- Profanity: Strong language is used frequently throughout the film. Characters regularly use explicit profanity during conversations and arguments. Parents should expect repeated use of the strongest curse words.
- Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking: Drug use is a significant part of the movie’s mature content. Characters are shown using recreational drugs, drinking alcohol, and engaging in nightlife activities. Smoking may also be present to reflect the 1970s setting.
- Frightening & Intense Scenes: The film contains emotionally intense moments involving personal struggles, workplace pressure, identity issues, and self-destructive behavior. While not a horror movie, some scenes may be uncomfortable for younger viewers.
Tips for Parents
Parents should be aware that Tony is not a family-friendly biography. The movie presents a fictionalized version of Anthony Bourdain’s youth and includes strong adult content throughout. Watching the trailer beforehand can help parents decide whether the film is appropriate for older teens. Families may also want to discuss the movie’s themes of ambition, substance use, and personal choices after viewing.
Tony Official Trailer
As of now, Tony (2026) is scheduled for an exclusive theatrical release on September 18, 2026, by A24, and streaming details are expected to be revealed after its theatrical run.
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Tony (2026)?
A: Tony is officially rated R for pervasive language, drug use, and sexual content/nudity.
Q: Is Tony suitable for teenagers?
A: Tony is generally not recommended for younger teens because of its mature content. Older teens may watch with parental guidance, but the film is primarily intended for adult audiences.
Q: Does Tony contain violence?
A: Tony contains workplace conflicts, verbal aggression, and tense confrontations, but it does not focus on graphic violence or gore.
Q: Does Tony include drug use and alcohol?
A: Yes. Tony includes scenes involving recreational drug use, alcohol consumption, and nightlife culture, which are major reasons for its R rating.
Q: Does Tony contain sexual content?
A: Yes. Tony includes sexual situations, adult relationships, and nudity, making it unsuitable for younger viewers.
Q: Where can I watch Tony (2026)?
A: Tony is scheduled to open in theaters on September 18, 2026.