*San Sebastian Film Fest photo call, courtesy of Getty Images.*

After divorce and defamation trial with ex-wife Amber Heard, Johnny Depp is slowly moving back into the spotlight with his latest film ‘Modì’ — in which he directed and produced.

[The infamous defamation trial involving Amber Heard saw claims of domestic violence and abuse from both parties.]

‘Modì’ synopsis: A 72 hour whirlwind through the streets of WWI Paris, Italian bohemian artist Modigliani attempts to out maneuver bombs, policemen, girlfriends and critics in a increasingly desperate search of a home for his art.

The film is Depp’s second directorial feature, following ‘The Brave’ (1997), and has made its debut at the San Sebastián International Film Festival in Spain.

At the film’s press conference Tuesday, it was revealed that Al Pacino, who serves as producer and stars, told Depp to take on the task of directing the feature.

“I’m sure we can say that I’ve been through a number of things here and there. Maybe yours didn’t turn into a soap opera,” he said, referencing the trial and comparing himself to Modi’s life.

Depp’s cast had nothing but praise for the director, calling him a “a fatherly figure.”

“He’s the nicest, the kindness, the sweetest man I’ve ever worked with in my life,” said lead Italian star Riccardo Scamarcio. “The industry, I think, should be very careful.”

Full interview available at the THR.

The film stars Riccardo Scamarcio as Amedeo Modigliani, Stephen Graham as Léopold Zborowski, Al Pacino as Maurice Gangnat, Antonia Desplat as Beatrice Hastings, Bruno Gouery as Maurice Utrillo, Ryan McParland as Chaïm Soutine, Luisa Ranieri as Rosalie Tobia, Sally Phillips as the general's wife, Benjamin Lavernhe as Monsieur Petit, Viorica Manole and Ionita Manole.

After the premiere yesterday (Tuesday), the film will go on to make its Italian debut at the Rome Film Festival on October 26, before it releases nationwide in Italy on December 5, 2024.

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