On a crisp evening in London, Johnny Depp, the Hollywood maverick known for his transformative roles, returned to the spotlight with a rare smile at the premiere of Modi: Three Days on the Wing of Madness, marking his first directorial project in over two decades. Held on July 8, 2025, at The Curzon Mayfair, the event showcased Depp’s latest venture behind the camera, a biopic about Italian painter Amedeo Modigliani, featuring a star-studded cast including Al Pacino and Riccardo Scamarcio. At 62, Depp’s appearance—dressed in his signature all-black ensemble, complete with sunglasses and a scarf—drew cheers from fans and media alike, signaling a potential resurgence for the actor amid a challenging career phase. This article explores the significance of the premiere, the film’s creation, and what it reveals about Depp’s evolving journey.
A Triumphant Return to Directing
The London premiere of Modi represents a significant milestone for Depp, whose last directorial effort, The Brave in 1997 alongside Marlon Brando, faded into obscurity. Based on Dennis McIntyre’s play, Modi transports viewers to 1916 Paris during World War I, capturing three chaotic days in the life of Modigliani, portrayed by Scamarcio. The film weaves a narrative of artistic struggle and defiance, with Al Pacino playing art collector Maurice Gangnat, challenging Modigliani’s identity with the line, “Just because you can paint on a canvas does not make you an artist.” The cast also includes Stephen Graham and Antonia Desplat, adding depth to a story of bohemian rebellion amid war-torn streets.
Depp’s decision to helm this project comes after a tumultuous period, notably his 2022 defamation trial against Amber Heard, which left his Hollywood standing precarious. His removal from the Fantastic Beasts franchise and public statements about being “dumped” by the industry had fueled speculation about his retirement. Yet, the Modi premiere, attended by supporters like Charlie Hunnam, who came to back Desplat, suggests a deliberate pivot toward creative control. Depp’s smile on the red carpet—a stark contrast to his recent somber appearances—hinted at personal fulfillment, a sentiment he echoed in earlier statements calling the experience “incredibly fulfilling and transformative.”
The Making of Modi: A Personal Journey
Depp’s involvement with Modi began years ago, sparked by a conversation with Al Pacino during the filming of Donnie Brasco in 1997. Pacino’s encouragement to direct a Modigliani story resurfaced as a passion project, nurtured through Depp’s production company, IN.2 Film. The October 2024 trailer, immersing audiences in the gritty ambiance of wartime Paris, set the tone for a film that mirrors Depp’s own resilience. At the San Sebastian Film Festival press conference on September 24, 2024, he drew parallels between his life and Modigliani’s, noting, “Each has their story… Maybe yours didn’t turn into a soap opera, televised, in fact.” This reflection on his trial underscored a personal connection, framing Modi as more than a professional endeavor.
The film’s production involved a collaborative cast and crew, with Depp expressing gratitude for their commitment. Pacino, 85, praised Depp’s creativity, recalling the “fun” of working under his direction. The project also featured actors like Ryan McParland, Bruno Gouery, and Luisa Ranieri, whose performances enriched the chaotic narrative. Depp’s hands-on approach, from set design to casting, reflects a desire to reclaim his narrative after years of industry scrutiny, a theme that resonates with Modigliani’s own defiance of convention.
A Career at a Crossroads
Depp’s career trajectory has been anything but conventional. Rising to fame with Edward Scissorhands and Pirates of the Caribbean, he built a reputation for eccentric roles. However, the Heard trial, which ended with a $10.35 million award reduced to a $1 million settlement, shifted public and industry perceptions. His exit from major franchises and a self-imposed hiatus—punctuated by painting and music—suggested a retreat. Yet, Modi and his upcoming role in Day Drinker with Penélope Cruz indicate a selective return, balancing acting with directing.
The London premiere’s warm reception contrasts with this backdrop. Fans on social platforms celebrated his return, with posts highlighting his smile as a sign of renewed confidence. Industry observers see Modi as a test of his directorial mettle, with its art-house appeal potentially appealing to niche audiences rather than blockbuster markets. This shift aligns with Depp’s recent focus on personal projects, including his directorial debut and relief efforts in Texas, where he helped rebuild flood-damaged homes.
The Red Carpet Moment
On July 8, Depp arrived at The Curzon Mayfair exuding a mix of nostalgia and renewal. His all-black outfit, a nod to his iconic style, was met with applause from a crowd that included longtime collaborators and new admirers. Photos captured him posing with Desplat and Scamarcio, his smile a rare public display of joy amid recent challenges. The event’s atmosphere was festive, with Hunnam’s presence adding a layer of camaraderie, supporting Desplat, who plays a key role.
The premiere also drew attention to Depp’s physical transformation—his weathered look softened by the occasion—prompting discussions about his health and happiness. His interaction with fans, signing autographs, echoed earlier red carpet moments, like the 2024 Jeanne Du Barry premiere, where he joked about his Kentucky roots while playing King Louis XV. This consistency suggests a man comfortable in his skin, using Modi to reclaim his artistic voice.
Public and Critical Reception
The response to Modi has been mixed but promising. Early reviews from the San Sebastian screening praised its visual storytelling, though some critiqued its pacing. Fans on social media hailed it as a “masterpiece of passion,” while others awaited its broader release to judge its impact. Depp’s directorial return has reignited debates about his career, with some seeing it as a redemption arc post-trial, others as a natural evolution for a seasoned artist.
Critics note the risk of Modi being overshadowed by Depp’s personal narrative. His trial references, while poignant, could polarize audiences, much like his recent Texas flood relief efforts sparked both admiration and skepticism. Yet, the film’s focus on Modigliani’s struggle offers a universal appeal, potentially transcending Depp’s controversies. Its limited theatrical run, starting later in 2025, will test its commercial viability.
What Lies Ahead?
Modi’s premiere signals a new chapter for Depp, one where directing might take precedence over acting. His next project, Day Drinker, suggests he hasn’t abandoned the screen, but the satisfaction derived from Modi—evident in his London smile—points to a preference for creative control. This aligns with a broader trend of actors like Ron Howard and Clint Eastwood, who found longevity behind the camera.
Speculation about his future includes potential follow-up films or even a return to Hollywood on his terms. His Texas philanthropy and Modi directorship hint at a man redefining success beyond box office numbers. Whether this marks an exit from the spotlight or a reentry with new rules remains unclear, but the London premiere underscores his enduring appeal and adaptability.
A Legacy Reimagined
Johnny Depp’s smile at the Modi premiere is more than a moment of joy—it’s a declaration of resilience. After decades of highs and lows, from pirate adventures to courtroom battles, he’s carving a path that blends his past with a vision for the future. Modi: Three Days on the Wing of Madness stands as a testament to his artistic spirit, offering a glimpse into a career reborn. As the film rolls out, the world watches, eager to see if this rebel will redefine his legacy, one frame at a time.