Johnny Depp portrays Scrooge in Ti West’s adaptation of Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol.

Johnny Depp portrays Scrooge in Ti West’s adaptation of Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol.

      Here’s a Christmas surprise that wasn’t on anyone's wish list. Johnny Depp is in advanced talks to take on the role of the infamous holiday grump Scrooge in director Ti West’s Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol, known for Pearl and MaXXXine.

      According to a report by Variety, this Paramount Pictures project is scheduled for theatrical release on November 13, 2026. West will direct from a screenplay by Nathaniel Halpern, who previously created the little-known yet exceptional Prime Video series Tales From the Loop.

      In addition to news of Depp’s involvement, this adaptation will also feature Andrea Riseborough (Good Boy) in a role yet to be specified.

      The Pirates of the Caribbean star joins a long list of actors who have embodied Ebenezer Scrooge on screen—starting with the legendary 1951 performance by Alastair Sim, followed by portrayals from Bill Murray, Michael Caine, and Jim Carrey’s unsettling motion-capture version in Robert Zemeckis’ 2009 A Christmas Carol.

      West’s film marks the second major adaptation of Dickens’ classic tale in development, as Robert Eggers is also working on his version for Warner Bros.

      Share your thoughts on Depp’s casting—are you excited or unimpressed? Let us know on our social media channels @FlickeringMyth…

Johnny Depp portrays Scrooge in Ti West’s adaptation of Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol. Johnny Depp portrays Scrooge in Ti West’s adaptation of Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol. Johnny Depp portrays Scrooge in Ti West’s adaptation of Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol.

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Furthermore, both Jennifer and Fernando are unlikable characters, making it hard for viewers to connect with them, and the lack of chemistry between Chastain and newcomer Hernández (who both deliver strong performances individually) exacerbates the issue. The explicit sex scenes feel excessive and awkward, failing to add any emotional depth to the film’s portrayal of its subjects. In its concluding 15 minutes, the film really begins to unravel. Following a surprisingly shocking plot twist, it takes an abrupt turn that might leave audiences disoriented; a plot device meant to provoke shock, but it doesn't integrate with the film's themes as smoothly as Franco intends. The controversial ending may find some supporters, but it will likely leave many viewers confused. Dreams does have its strengths. Chastain is outstanding as ever, Hernández shows promise as a significant talent, Rupert Friend stands out as Jake, and the opening sequence is genuinely engaging. 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Johnny Depp portrays Scrooge in Ti West’s adaptation of Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol.

Here’s a Christmas present that wasn’t on anyone’s wish list. Johnny Depp is in advanced discussions to portray the iconic holiday grump Scrooge in Pearl and MaXXXine director Ti West’s Eb…