Italy’s RAI Cinema, the cinematic arm of the country’s state broadcaster, recently announced its 2025-2026 film lineup, and one title is already stealing the show: Day Drinker, a high-octane action thriller starring Johnny Depp and Penélope Cruz. This film marks a significant moment for Depp, whose return to major Hollywood productions has been eagerly anticipated following a tumultuous period in his personal and professional life. With a stellar cast, a visionary director, and a gripping storyline, Day Drinker is poised to be a global sensation. Here’s why this project, alongside RAI Cinema’s ambitious slate, is generating unprecedented excitement.

A Star-Studded Reunion and a Hollywood Comeback

Day Drinker brings together Johnny Depp and Penélope Cruz for their fourth on-screen collaboration, a partnership that has spanned decades and genres. The duo first shared the screen in 2001’s Blow, a gritty crime drama about the cocaine trade. They reunited a decade later in Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, where Cruz’s fiery Angelica matched Depp’s iconic Captain Jack Sparrow. Their third pairing came in 2017’s Murder on the Orient Express, a star-packed whodunit. Each collaboration has showcased their undeniable chemistry, and fans are thrilled to see them team up again in what promises to be a thrilling new context.

For Depp, Day Drinker represents more than just another role—it’s a triumphant return to Hollywood’s mainstream spotlight. After high-profile legal battles and a period of working on smaller, European-backed projects like Jeanne du Barry and Modi: Three Days on the Wing of Madness, this Lionsgate-produced film marks his first major studio project since 2018’s Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. Reports suggest Depp appears almost unrecognizable in the role, sporting long grey hair and a beard, adding an intriguing layer of mystery to his character. This transformation has already sparked curiosity about how he’ll inhabit this enigmatic figure.

Cruz, an Oscar-winning actress known for her versatility, is equally compelling in the project. Her recent roles in films like Ferrari and upcoming projects like The Bride! demonstrate her ability to command the screen, whether in dramatic or action-packed settings. In Day Drinker, she plays a criminal figure whose path intertwines with the other leads, promising a performance that’s both intense and layered.

A Gripping Story and a Visionary Director

At its core, Day Drinker is an action thriller with a twist-laden narrative. The story follows a private-yacht bartender, played by Outer Banks star Madelyn Cline, who encounters a mysterious guest onboard, portrayed by Depp. Their unlikely bond pulls them into a dangerous web involving a criminal figure, played by Cruz, with connections that unravel in unexpected ways. The screenplay, penned by Zach Dean, who also wrote The Gorge and Fast X, is said to blend commercial appeal with bold, unpredictable turns, making it a perfect vehicle for its A-list cast.

Directing the film is Marc Webb, a filmmaker known for his ability to balance emotional depth with visual flair. Webb broke out with the indie hit 500 Days of Summer, a romantic comedy that showcased his knack for storytelling. He later took on blockbuster territory with The Amazing Spider-Man and its sequel, proving he could handle large-scale action. Most recently, he directed Disney’s live-action Snow White, set for release in 2025, which features Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot. Webb’s involvement in Day Drinker signals a return to the thriller genre, and his enthusiasm for the project—he’s described the story as “thrilling” and “ferocious”—has heightened anticipation.

The supporting cast further elevates the film’s appeal. Alongside Cline, the movie features rising stars like Manu Ríos and Arón Piper, known for their work in Netflix’s Elite, as well as Juan Diego Botto, who appeared in The Suicide Squad, and newcomer Anika Boyle. This mix of established and emerging talent adds depth to the ensemble, ensuring Day Drinker appeals to a broad audience.

RAI Cinema’s Bold Acquisition

RAI Cinema’s acquisition of Day Drinker, in partnership with Italy’s Leone Film Group, marks a significant coup for the Italian distributor. As the first international distributor to secure the film, RAI Cinema has positioned itself at the forefront of a project with global potential. The company, known for championing both Italian and international cinema, has a track record of backing high-profile films while nurturing local talent. Its 2025-2026 lineup includes works from some of Italy’s most celebrated directors, such as Nanni Moretti, whose upcoming film Succederà Questa Notte stars Louis Garrel and Jasmine Trinca.

RAI Cinema’s decision to acquire Day Drinker reflects its confidence in the film’s commercial and artistic prospects. While a release date has yet to be confirmed, the buzz surrounding the project suggests it will be a centerpiece of the distributor’s slate. The film’s Italian connection is further strengthened by its production ties, with filming taking place in Spain, a country with close cultural links to Italy. This international flavor, combined with the star power of Depp and Cruz, makes Day Drinker a natural fit for RAI Cinema’s ambitions to compete on the global stage.

The Context of Depp’s Return

Johnny Depp’s journey back to Hollywood has been anything but straightforward. Once one of the industry’s most bankable stars, known for iconic roles in Edward Scissorhands, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Sweeney Todd, Depp faced significant challenges following his legal disputes with ex-wife Amber Heard. The highly publicized defamation trial in 2022, which Depp won, cleared a path for his return, but his absence from major studio films left fans wondering when he’d reclaim his place in the industry.

Day Drinker answers that question emphatically. Produced by Thunder Road’s Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee, known for the John Wick franchise, and Adam Kolbrenner, who worked on Free Guy, the film has the backing of heavy-hitting producers with a knack for delivering crowd-pleasers. Lionsgate, the studio behind the project, is marketing Day Drinker as a high-concept thriller with broad appeal, and early images of Depp in character have already set social media alight.

The film also benefits from the renewed interest in Depp’s career. His recent projects, while smaller in scale, demonstrated his enduring talent. Jeanne du Barry, where he played Louis XV, opened the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, earning praise for his performance despite mixed reviews for the film itself. His directorial effort, Modi, premiered at the San Sebastián International Film Festival, showcasing his creative range. Day Drinker builds on this momentum, offering Depp a chance to reassert his star power in a genre that suits his chameleon-like abilities.

Why ‘Day Drinker’ Matters

Beyond its star power and thrilling premise, Day Drinker represents a broader trend in cinema: the resurgence of original, mid-budget thrillers. In an era dominated by superhero franchises and IP-driven blockbusters, films like Day Drinker—built on a fresh screenplay rather than existing intellectual property—feel like a breath of fresh air. The project’s success could pave the way for more stories that prioritize character and suspense over brand recognition.

For RAI Cinema, Day Drinker is a statement of intent. By securing a film with such high-profile talent, the distributor is signaling its ambition to compete with major players like Netflix and Universal. The company’s broader lineup, which balances Italian arthouse films with international crowd-pleasers, reflects a savvy approach to capturing diverse audiences.

For fans, Day Drinker is a chance to see two cinematic icons at the top of their game. Depp’s transformation and Cruz’s commanding presence promise performances that will linger long after the credits roll. Add in Webb’s directorial vision, a dynamic cast, and a story packed with twists, and it’s no surprise that Day Drinker is already one of the most talked-about films of 2025.

Looking Ahead

As RAI Cinema rolls out its 2025-2026 lineup, Day Drinker stands out as a jewel in its crown. While the film’s release date remains under wraps, its production in Spain is well underway, with Webb and his cast bringing Zach Dean’s script to life. For Johnny Depp, it’s a chance to reclaim his place among Hollywood’s elite. For Penélope Cruz, it’s another opportunity to showcase her range. And for audiences, it’s a thrilling ride that promises action, intrigue, and unforgettable performances.

RAI Cinema’s bold move to acquire Day Drinker has already paid dividends in buzz, and as more details emerge, the film is likely to dominate conversations in the months ahead. Whether you’re a fan of Depp, Cruz, or simply great storytelling, this is one movie you won’t want to miss. Keep an eye on this space—Day Drinker is just getting started.