Johnny Depp is stepping back into the Hollywood spotlight with the first trailer for Ebenezer, a dark retelling of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. The film marks his first major studio release since his widely publicised 2022 defamation trial involving ex-wife Amber Heard.
Directed by Ti West, Ebenezer reimagines the classic holiday tale, with Depp stepping into the role of Ebenezer Scrooge. The trailer presents a darker, more abrasive take on the iconic character, as he is haunted by the Ghosts of Christmas while lashing out at those around him.
The teaser also reflects West’s horror roots, weaving supernatural elements into the familiar Christmas story. According to Variety, the director has previously described classic adaptations of A Christmas Carol as some of his earliest introductions to the horror genre—a perspective that appears to have influenced the film’s darker tone.
Ebenezer also marks a significant moment in Depp’s career. Following his legal battle with Heard, the actor’s Hollywood output slowed considerably. In recent years, he appeared in international productions such as Jeanne du Barry and Minamata, while also directing Modì and Three Days on the Wing of Madness. Ebenezer is his first major Hollywood release since that period.
The film features an ensemble cast that includes Andrea Riseborough, Tramell Tillman, Ian McKellen, Rupert Grint and Daisy Ridley. It is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on November 13.
With its first trailer now released, Ebenezer offers audiences an early look at a darker take on one of literature’s most enduring holiday stories—and Depp’s return to leading a major Hollywood production.
