Johnny Depp Returns to Hollywood in Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol
Johnny Depp is set to star in a new movie, called Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol. This movie follows a miserable man as he tries to learn the error of his ways. Ti West is directing the movie for Paramount, with Ian McKellen, Andrea Riseborough, and Tramell Tillman all starring. Although their roles have not been released to the public, it’s certainly a big cast, with Emma Watts serving as the producer. The movie is set for release in November 2026.
Christmas is a Timeless Theme
Although people may only watch the new movie around Christmas time, and its viewership will certainly taper off after the festive period, it’s a wise move from Depp. Christmas movies are often revisited year after year, meaning he could capitalise on viewership for a very long time. Serving such a classic role could also serve as the best way for the Hollywood star to make his comeback. Christmas is also a popular topic for streaming platforms, with the release of more mature movies that include Hot Frosty and A Merry Little Ex-Mas.
Even some games are themed around Christmas, with casino titles touching on the festive period as well. Christmas Carol Megaways is just one example, which features iconic characters from the classic tale, alongside the classic burning candle, which is carried by Scrooge when investigating the past, present, and future.
Titles like this help to put a more adult spin on the theme of Christmas, which, interestingly, is exactly what Johnny Depp is doing with his new film. This version is going big, bold, and wild, with a dark edge that helps to add more drama and mystery to the plot. Although this movie is going to be much more adult in nature, with deeper and darker themes, it’s certainly a good fit for Depp’s wheelhouse, and could prove to be a huge movie for him if it’s got the right script.
Another Christmas Carol Movie is Also in the Works
Interestingly, the upcoming movie with Depp isn’t the only Christmas Carol movie that’s in the works. There’s another, directed by Robert Eggers. He’s writing and directing the new adaptation for Warner Bros. The project is in development right now, but it doesn’t have a release date. Willem Dafoe is going to be playing Ebenezer Scrooge, according to the latest data, and it’s expected to be another take on the story, but with a dark and intense lens. With both films in production at the same time, and both taking a darker slant to the original story, it’s going to be interesting to see which one comes out on top.
Although Depp is certainly one of the most perfect actors Paramount could have secured for their adaptation, Eggers has achieved monumental success with his release of Nosferatu. If Dafoe does step up to play Scrooge, it could prove to be worthy competition for Depp.
Fans of adult Christmas movies are certainly in for a treat next year, either way, as it looks like there’s going to be plenty of festive content released just in time for Christmas.
