Johnny Depp Shines at ‘Modi’ Premiere: His First Film as Director in 20 Years [PHOTOS]

Johnny Depp can’t stop smiling! The actor returned to the London red carpet for the premiere of “Modi: Three Days on the Wing of Madness”, his first film as a director in over 20 years.

The 61-year-old star appeared at The Curzon Mayfair in London on Tuesday, July 8, wearing his signature sunglasses, scarf, and an all-black tailored suit.

(Photo by Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)

The premiere marks a big milestone for Depp, whose last directorial effort was 1997’s “The Brave”, co-starring Marlon Brando.

Why is ‘Modi’ Special for Depp?

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Based on Dennis McIntyre’s stage play, Modi tells the story of Italian painter Amedeo Modigliani over three intense days in war-torn Paris during 1916. The film stars Riccardo Scamarcio as the tortured artist, with Al Pacino as art collector Maurice Gangnat. Also starring in the film are Stephen Graham, Antonia Desplat, Ryan McParland, Bruno Gouery, and Luisa Ranieri.

Depp’s own IN produces the project. A trailer released in October 2024 gives a moody glimpse into the drama. One scene features Pacino’s character challenging Modigliani with the line: “Just because you can paint on a canvas does not make you an artist. Doesn’t even make you a painter.”

What is Depp’s ‘Modi’ All About?

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According to Depp’s production company, the film unfolds as “a chaotic series of events through the streets and bars of war-torn Paris during World War I.”

“On the run from the police, Modi’s desire to end his career and leave the city is dismissed by fellow Bohemians. The chaos reaches a crescendo when he’s faced with a collector who could change his life.”

Depp Reflects on His Return to Directing

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In a statement released by People earlier this year, Depp described directing Modi as a deeply personal experience. “Embarking on this cinematic journey as the director of Modi has been an incredibly fulfilling and transformative experience,” he said. “I would like to express my profound gratitude to the entire cast, crew and producers for their unwavering commitment and creativity.”

Depp also credited longtime friend Al Pacino for pushing him to take the director’s seat: “To Al, who requested that I make this film — how could I refuse Pacino? A sincere acknowledgement for generously contributing his talent and dedication to this project.”

Pacino on Depp: “He’s Wild. He’s Wonderful.”

Speaking to People, Pacino praised Depp’s energy and creativity during filming: “He’s very creative, and it was fun to work with him…. He would just say, ‘Here we are. A couple of toddlers.’ He’s wild. He’s wonderful.”

What’s Next for Johnny Depp?

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Following “Modi”, Depp is set to appear in “Day Drinker” alongside Penélope Cruz and Madelyn Cline. Modi previously premiered at the San Sebastián and Rome Film Festivals and is expected to hit theaters in 2025.

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