Johnny Depp returning to direction with `Modi` biopic co-produced by Al Pacino
Hollywood actor Johnny Depp Italian creative Amedeo Modigliani is making his directorial comeback with ‘Modi’, a biopic about the nickname ‘Modi’. Depp is co-producing the film with Al Pacino and Barry Navidi.
The film’s lead, Modigliani, will be portrayed by Riccardo Scamarcio, while French artist Maurice Utrillo will be played by Pierre Nini, and Pacino will play Gangnat, an art collector. The project is scheduled to begin production in Budapest in the fall and will be presented to potential buyers in Cannes.
This drama is based on Dennis McIntyre’s play ‘Modigliani’
It takes place within 48 hours and finds Modigliani fleeing the city while being chased by law enforcement agents. Jerzy and Mary Chromolowski team wrote it. Chaos unfolds when the protagonist consults his friend and art dealer Leopold Zborowski for guidance, as he encounters a potentially life-changing collector. The film traces the artist’s life in Paris circa 1916, where a chaotic 48 hours became a pivotal moment, cementing his status as an artistic icon.
Johnny Depp, producing for his European production company IN.2 Films, looks forward to bringing this universal human story to the big screen. Despite a highly publicized legal battle against his ex-wife, Amber Heard, Depp is optimistic about the film and his career. Additionally, Depp is set to play King Louis XV in Maven’s French historical romance Jeanne du Barry, marking another chapter to his impressive European portfolio.
Barry Navidi, who has worked with Al Pacino on various films such as ‘The Merchant of Venice’ and ‘Salome’, has revealed that ‘Modi’ is a worthwhile project for Pacino. Navidi clarified that the film depicts a part of Modi’s life, not a biography. Additionally, he expressed his long-term desire to work with Johnny again.
More casting announcements are expected as production begins in Europe in spring 2023, while The Veterans will handle the film’s global distribution. Fans are eagerly anticipating Depp’s return to directing with Modi, which marks his first feature film directorial venture since 1997’s The Brave.
Also Read: Johnny Depp returns to screen after 3 years with ‘Jean du Barry’ at Cannes
