After the tumultuous past few years, Johnny Depp has emerged victorious. While the star never truly abandoned his passion, audiences have definitely seen less of him in the cinemas. And now, as the dust settles, the actor is ready to reclaim his throne as Hollywood royalty, but this time, by staying behind the scenes. And for the most part, he credits The Godfather actor Al Pacino for this comeback, as the veteran actor convinced Depp to return to the director’s chair after decades.
Johnny Depp’s Return to the Director’s Chair Wouldn’t Have Been Possible Without Al Pacino!
After a considerable hiatus and, to be honest, a rather lengthy 2022, Johnny Depp is back in the director’s chair. And the actor revealed that Al Pacino was mainly the driving force behind this comeback. What’s more intriguing about the news is that it marks Depp’s return to directing after a hiatus of more than two decades, the last stint being in 1997’s The Brave.
In a Deadline sneak peek, it was reported that the actor revealed in a statement,
“I would like to express my profound gratitude to the entire cast, crew, and producers for their unwavering commitment and creativity. To Al, who requested that I make this film — how could I refuse Pacino?A sincere acknowledgement for generously contributing his talent and dedication to this project.”
One can say that Al Pacino and Depp have been friends in the industry for quite some time now, sharing screens and projects along the way. It’s truly heartwarming to witness these two icons reunite after Donnie Brasco, but this time, with Depp hiding behind the scenes.
While this signifies a significant comeback, it’s not his first venture since the court hearing. Depp previously dipped his toes in Maïwenn’s Jeanne du Barry, which was released in theaters in May 2023.
Also Read: Johnny Depp Can Make Superhero Movie Debut as One of 6 Villains in James Gunn’s DCU
Johnny Depp Reflects on His Directorial Journey So Far on Modi
Now taking charge behind the camera, Johnny Depp is helming Modi, an upcoming biopic about the life of the Italian painter Amedeo Modigliani. Set in World War I, the film unfolds over 48 hours in Paris. Italian actor Riccardo Scamarcio is set to portray Modigliani, while the supporting cast has the names of talents such as Antonia Desplat, Stephen Graham, and Sally Phillips in the roaster.
Taking the director’s seat after a quarter-century could induce a few jitters here and there. Reflecting on the experience he shared,
“Embarking on this cinematic journey as the director of Modi has been an incredibly fulfilling and transformative experience. Modi is a testament to the collaborative spirit of independent filmmaking, and I am excited to present this unique and compelling story to the world.”
Based on the actor’s statements, he is currently happier than ever working behind the camera. With his friend by his side, he confidently faces the challenges ahead. Modi promises to be an interesting watch for sure. Even though specific release dates are yet to be confirmed, fans are eagerly awaiting its arrival.
