According to a report from The CinematicWorld, Johnny Depp has landed his first directing role in 25 years.
After a gap of 25 years since his directorial debut in the film “The Brave,” Johnny Depp is set to direct once again. He will be helming the film “Modigliani,” which revolves around the life of Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani. Depp will also co-produce the film alongside Al Pacino and Barry Navidi.
What Is The Movie About?
“Modigliani” is based on Dennis McIntyre’s play and has been adapted for the screen by Jerzy and Mary Kromolowski. The film will depict the story of Amedeo Modigliani, a painter and sculptor living in Paris in 1916. Over the course of 48 hours, Modigliani experiences a tumultuous and dramatic period that becomes a turning point in his life, leading him to become an acclaimed artistic figure. Production for the film is set to start in Europe in spring 2023, and further details about the cast will be announced soon.
“The story of Mr. Modigliani’s life is one that I’m extremely honored and deeply humbled to bring to the big screen,” stated Depp, who produces for IN.2, the European division of his production company Infinitum Nihil. “It was a life filled with immense challenges, but ultimately led to triumph—an inherently human tale that viewers from all walks of life can relate to.”
“Modigliani” marks Johnny Depp’s second European project as he continues to recover from his highly publicized defamation trial with his ex-wife Amber Heard. In addition to “Modigliani,” Depp is also involved in the film “Jeanne du Barry,” directed by French filmmaker Maïwenn. In this historical love story, Depp portrays King Louis XV. The filming for “Jeanne du Barry” commenced in late July and marks Depp’s return to the big screen after a three-year hiatus.
“Modigliani” serves as another collaboration between Al Pacino and Barry Navidi, who have worked together on previous films including “The Merchant of Venice” (2004), “Wilde Salomé” (2011), and “Salomé” (2013). Alongside IN.2 and Depp, Pacino and Navidi join forces as producers for the film.
“This project holds great significance for both Al and myself. Al introduced me to the play Modigliani many years ago, and I was immediately captivated by it,” stated Navidi. “Our film will focus on a specific period in Modigliani’s life rather than being a full biography. Working with Johnny again has been a personal dream of mine. He is a true artist with a remarkable vision to bring this extraordinary story to life on the screen.”
While Johnny Depp is widely known for his acting career, it is worth noting that he has also taken on the role of a producer in ten films. Some notable examples include “Hugo” in 2011 and “Crock of Gold: A Few Rounds with Shane MacGowan” in 2020.
