After years of controversy surrounding his tumultuous relationship with Amber Heard and a very public defamation trial, it appears Johnny Depp is ready to make his comeback. And though he’s already lined up some acting gigs, Depp is ready to take full advantage of his return by doing something he hasn’t done in decades—direct a feature.
According to THR, Johnny Depp has signed on to direct the film “Modigliani.” The film is based on a play by Dennis McIntyre and scripted by Jerzy and Mary Kromolowski. “Modigliani” tells the story of the famous artist Amedeo Modigliani and his time in Paris in 1916 where he goes from self-confessed artistic failure to a true legend. In addition to directing, Depp is also a producer on the film alongside Al Pacino and Barry Navidi.
“The saga of Mr. Modigliani’s life is one that I’m incredibly honored, and truly humbled, to bring to the screen,” said Depp. “It was a life of great hardship, but eventual triumph — a universally human story all viewers can identify with.”
As mentioned, Depp hasn’t directed a feature since 1997’s “The Brave,” in which he co-starred alongside Marlon Brando. That film never got a massive release after its debut at Cannes and didn’t get a formal release in the US. Since then, the actor has directed a number of music videos but hasn’t stepped behind the camera for a feature in 25 years.
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The news does come at a time when public sentiment surrounding Depp is decidedly mixed. He has a legion of strong supporters online, who have made it very known that they support the actor and don’t believe any of the stories about his alleged abuse, both mental and physical, against Heard. However, there are plenty who still believe Depp is a problematic actor who shouldn’t be forgiven so quickly.
Regardless of which side you find yourself on, it appears Depp is still finding plenty of work. No release date for “Modigliani” has been announced, but production is expected to begin in spring 2023.
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