Johnny Depp returned to the spotlight in London this week for the U.K. premiere of his new film Modi, marking his first time directing a feature in more than two decades. The event took place at the Curzon Mayfair, drawing attention not only to the film, but also to Depp’s carefully measured return to public life following years of intense legal and media scrutiny.
Wearing a dark tailored suit and sunglasses, Depp kept a low profile yet appeared relaxed and confident as he greeted fans and photographers. The red carpet marked a significant moment for the actor, who has largely remained out of the public eye since his widely publicized legal battles.
A Story Rooted in Real History
Modi follows the turbulent life of Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani over the course of 48 hours in Paris during World War I. The film captures a chaotic period in the painter’s life as he tries to evade police and confront personal demons.
The story is based on a play by Dennis McIntyre, adapted for the screen by Jerzy and Mary Kromolowski. It offers an intense and intimate portrayal of the artist’s mental and emotional struggle, brought to life through a powerful performance by Italian actor Riccardo Scamarcio.
Al Pacino and an All-Star Cast
Al Pacino plays the role of art collector Maurice Gangnat, a character pivotal to Modigliani’s legacy. Depp credited Pacino with helping bring the film to life, noting that Pacino was instrumental in keeping the project moving forward. Other cast members include Stephen Graham and Antonia Desplat.
The trailer, released last fall, gave audiences a glimpse of war-torn Paris, a crumbling art world, and the inner turmoil of a man fighting both the outside world and his own mind.
Depp’s First Feature Since the 1990s
Modi is Depp’s first feature film as a director since The Brave in 1997. Speaking previously at the San Sebastián Film Festival, Depp called the film deeply personal and expressed his admiration for Modigliani, describing the artist’s short life as “tragically beautiful.”
He also noted the dedication of the cast and crew, saying that many came to the project out of passion, not profit. “This wasn’t about money. This was about telling a story that mattered,” Depp said.
What’s Next for Depp
The film has already been shown at major festivals including San Sebastián and Rome and is scheduled for wider release later this year. Depp is also expected to appear in Day Drinker, another upcoming film in which he stars alongside Penélope Cruz and Madelyn Cline.
As Depp slowly re-emerges into the public sphere, Modi represents more than just a new directorial effort. For him, it’s a statement of purpose — a return to artistic expression on his own terms.