by Kristin Ciliberto, Contributing Writer
Take a journey with an extraordinary man as director Morgan Neville paints the portrait of a celebrated chef, storyteller, and traveler that is also a tragic story. Anthony Bourdain saw tremendous success with his career and overcame a drug habit. The documentary, Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain begins when Bourdain established himself as a chef. It then goes behind the scenes to him writing his successful and surprising best-selling book, “Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly” that turned him into a celebrity. Bourdain also saw more success becoming the host of various shows as Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, A Cook’s Tour, Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations, and Anthony Bourdain: The Layover.
Neville had a great deal of footage to play with to construct the story. The film includes archival footage, home footage and features on-camera interviews of people close to Bourdain, including his crews, colleagues, family, and friends such as Josh Homme, David Chang, Alison Mosshart, and Ottavia Busia. Neville has constructed outstanding films before, including another legendary figure in television history, the Fred Rogers documentary Won’t You Be My Neighbor and the 2013 Academy Award-winning documentary 20 Feet from Stardom. Neville is able to capture the spirit and authenticity of Bourdain who made him so respected. He made the film intriguing, informative, and oftentimes dark. It’s an emotional journey of a man who struggled with demons.
This case study of Bourdain celebrates a complex man who had a wild, charming side and a passion for food, travel, and people that he was able to draw audiences in and what made him so beloved. The film explores the idea of fame, money, love, family, fulfillment, and most importantly mental health. Unfortunately, Bourdain took his own life at 61 in 2018 in France. Audiences know Bourdain’s tragic past, but the ending is still shocking as this talent was gone way too soon. The film shows how those close to him haven’t been able to grasp the fact he passed away and suggests one of the reasons why Bourdain passed was due to the relationship he had with Asia Argento, the daughter of Dario Argento, pioneer of the #MeToo movement. Unfortunately, she got caught up in a sex scandal.
Audiences discover the unbelievable story of Anthony Bourdain in Neville’s shot to win another Oscar. The film is a touching and honest tribute of a chef to be admired that will break audience’s hearts. If you are an Anthony Bourdain fan, this is a must-see! It is a must-see overall as Neville will win audiences’ hearts from beginning to end.
Grade: A+