Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain

About Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain

'Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain' is a 2021 documentary film directed by Morgan Neville. The movie explores the life and career of the renowned celebrity chef, author, and travel documentarian, Anthony Bourdain, who tragically took his own life in 2018. The film offers an intimate look at Bourdain's experiences, achievements, struggles, and impact, including his advocacy for underrepresented cultures, his curiosity for worldwide cuisine and cultures, his battle with mental health, and his ultimate legacy.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Morgan Neville, a noted filmmaker known for his equally impressive and thought-provoking documentaries and docu-series. For this movie, Neville made use of Bourdain's videos, writings, shows, and interviews to tell his story authentically. It also includes new interviews with Bourdain's friends and colleagues.

Actors

• Anthony Bourdain as Himself - The film includes numerous clips of Bourdain from his television shows and interviews, bringing his distinct charisma, insights, and personality to the screen.
• Various Friends and Colleagues of Bourdain - They share their experiences and thoughts about Bourdain, reflecting on his life, contributions, and the void left by his abrupt passing.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This is the first feature documentary on Bourdain since his sudden death in 2018.
• The film features original music by artists Michael Andrews and Josh Homme, both were friends with Bourdain.
• The film's title, "Roadrunner", is a reference to the 1970s song by The Modern Lovers, which was a favorite of Bourdain's.

Quotes

• "Travel isn’t always pretty. You go away. You learn. You get scarred, marked, changed in the process." - Anthony Bourdain
• "It's been an adventure. We took some casualties over the years. Things got broken. Things got lost." - Anthony Bourdain

Music, Soundtrack

• "Roadrunner" by The Modern Lovers - Featured prominently, this song is a nod to Bourdain's love for the track and sets the tone for his adventurous approach to life.
• Original score by Michael Andrews and Josh Homme - They crafted a soundtrack that echoes the global stories Bourdain told throughout his career.