Johnny Depp’s next movie will play a critical role in his Hollywood comeback. Before his highly publicized trial against ex-wife Amber Heard, Depp was a reliable box office star. ThePirates of the Caribbeanfilms, starring Depp as Jack Sparrow, have grossed over $4.5 billion worldwide. He also had prominent roles in hits likeAlice in WonderlandandFantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.
His career stalled after he lost a 2020 libel lawsuit over an article published byThe Sunthat alleged he assaulted Heard. However, Depp then filed a defamation lawsuit against Heard after she shared similar accusations in a 2018 op-ed inThe Washington Post. The case went to trial in 2022, andthe court ruled in Depp’s favor.
Following the attention-grabbing trial, many have wondered if Depp could make a comeback. The actor starred in 2023’sJeanne du Barry, and is directing and starring inModi, a biopic about Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani. However, his next high-profile role is inDay Drinker, andthe film’s box office results may be indicative of what Depp’s comeback will look like.
Day Drinker’s Performance Could Determine Johnny Depp’s Hollywood Future
Day Drinkeris Depp’s first prominent role since winning his 2022 trial against Heard. Directed by Marc Webb, the Lionsgate film stars him, Penélope Cruz, and Madelyn Cline. Depp plays a mysterious guest who meets a private yacht bartender, played by Cline. The pair then become entangled with a criminal figure (Cruz) and find unexpected connections between themselves.
WhileModiis an important project for Depp,this is the first time since his trial that a major studio is taking a shot on theSweeney Toddactor. Webb is an accomplished director, who has helmed hit films like 2012’sThe Amazing Spider-Manand 2009’s(500) Days of Summer. Whilehis latest film,Snow White, bombed, he has created movies that appeal to large audiences.
Day Drinkerdoes not have an official release date.
The question isif audiences are willing to pay money to see a film that stars Depp. While he is a recognizable name, there is still a crowd that doesn’t want to see anything associated with him. However, others are excited to see his comeback, especially after he won his trial. IfDay Drinkeris a hit, it could give studios more confidence in casting him in leading roles.
Fortunately, the film is also bolstered by a talented cast with Cline and Cruz. Cruz is an established talent, and Cline is a rising star whose inclusion could appeal to younger audiences. While there’s still a long way to go beforeDeppreturns toblockbuster franchises likePirates,Day Drinkercould be the film that determines whether audiences are ready to embrace the actor again.
