Johnny Depp credits Al Pacino with his return to filmmaking as first look of 'Modi' is unveiled

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Actor-director Johnny Depp is returning to filmmaking, marking his first significant comeback to the film industry in a few years for the independent film 'Modi.'

The film stars Riccardo Scamarcio as the Italian-born painter and sculptor Amedeo Modigliani, alongside Antonia Desplat and Al Pacino.

Depp can be seen leading the cast in first-look pictures that were released from the set of 'Modi.'

Al Pacino portrays the supporting character of Maurice Gangnat, a real-life French art collector.

This is Depp's first significant project following his 2022 court triumph over Amber Heard, and his first directing effort since the 1997 blockbuster 'The Brave,' per Variety.

Al Pacino's Contribution to Johnny Depp-directed 'Modi'

This biopic is set to take place first time in 25 years since Depp directed and co-starred with Marlon Brando in 1997's 'The Brave.'

When asked what motivated him to take on the role of director, Depp said that taking on the project has been unique.

In an interview with USA Today, 60-year-old Depp gives credit to 83-year-old Pacino for motivating him to helm his first movie since 1997's 'The Brave.' The movie is presently in post-production.

Depp said, "Embarking on this cinematic journey as the director of MODI has been an incredibly fulfilling and transformative experience."

"I would like to express my profound gratitude to the entire cast, crew, and producers for their unwavering commitment and creativity," the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' star added.

Depp continued by crediting Pacin, "To Al, who requested that I make this film—how could I refuse Pacino? A sincere acknowledgment (sic) for generously contributing his talent and dedication to this project."

"MODI is a testament to the collaborative spirit of independent filmmaking, and I am excited to present this unique and compelling story to the world," he added.

In 1997, Pacino and Depp collaborated in the crime drama 'Donnie Brasco.'

The movie is produced by Depp's European production firm, IN.2, in collaboration with producer Barry Navidi, and it also stars Bruno Gouery, Stephen Graham, Luisa Ranieri, Ryan McParland, and Sally Phillips.

'Modi' chronicles the life of Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani

The film 'Modi'—which is based on a play by Dennis McIntyre and was adapted for the cinema by Jerzy and Mary Kromolowski—chronicles 48 hours in the life of the painter and sculptor.

The film, which was mostly filmed in Budapest, tells the story of Amedeo Modigliani as he "navigates a turbulent and eventful 48 hours that will become a turning point in his life, solidifying his reputation as an artistic legend," per the IMDb synopsis.

According to the press release, 'Modi' depicts "the life of Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani in a 48-hour whirlwind, capturing 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."

In an earlier announcement on the movie, Depp remarked, "It was a life of great hardship, but eventual triumph — a universally human story all viewers can identify with."

Depp and Navidi have previously collaborated on films such as 2004's 'The Merchant of Venice,' 2011's 'Wilde Salome,' and 2013's 'Salome' before their yet another joint venture, 'Modi,' per The Collider.

Internet reacts to Johnny Depp-directed 'Modi'

Social media users took to the online platform X (formerly Twitter) to express their views on the first-look images that were released from the set of the movie 'Modi.'

One such X user wrote, "Congratulations Jhonny, keep winning as always, don't listen to the losers," while a second one exclaimed, "Two incredible talents. Incredibly happy for JD!"

"I can’t wait to see this. So much talent involved in this project, it’s going to be a huge hit. Nice to see Johnny so happy too. He’s living his best life!" wrote a third excited fan.

Another one explained, "Finally a movie that sounds interesting, not some Hollywood bulls*** that has been done a hundred times before.. the haters here are so desperate, you just have to look at their profiles"

"So excited well done johnny and the whole " MODI " team so good to see him happy and thriving," chimed in another one.

One more congratulated and wrote, "That is awesome congrats johnny depp"

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