September 20, 2024 — Acclaimed actor Johnny Depp will be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 19th edition of the Rome Film Festival, where his latest directorial project, Modi – Three Days on the Wing of Madness, will also make its Italian debut. The film, which focuses on the turbulent final days of iconic Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani, will be screened in the festival’s prestigious Grand Public section.

Modi, Depp’s second directorial feature after The Brave (1997), stars Riccardo Scamarcio as Modigliani, the Italian painter and sculptor renowned for his groundbreaking modernist portraits and nudes. The film, set during World War I, explores 72 tumultuous hours in Modigliani’s life, which ultimately cements his legacy as an artistic legend. The stellar cast includes Al Pacino as the art collector Maurice Gangnat, along with Stephen Graham, Antonia Desplat, and Bruno Gouery.

The film, which premiered at the San Sebastian Film Festival earlier this year, will be released in Italy by Be Water, in collaboration with Maestro Distribution and Medusa Film.

Depp’s Return to Directing

Modi marks Depp’s return to directing after a long hiatus, following the mixed reception of his 1997 debut. In a statement, Depp described the filmmaking process as “incredibly fulfilling and transformative,” thanking the cast and crew, and expressing gratitude to Al Pacino, who had encouraged him to take on the project. Depp also acknowledged the independent spirit behind the production, calling Modi a testament to collaborative filmmaking.

The film arrives at a crucial moment in Depp’s career, which has been marked by both professional highs and personal controversies. After winning a defamation lawsuit against his ex-wife Amber Heard in 2022, Depp has slowly been making a comeback. His return to the spotlight began with a starring role in Jeanne du Barry, which opened the Cannes Film Festival in 2023.

A Career and a Film in the Spotlight

Depp’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the Rome Film Festival is a significant recognition of his contributions to cinema. With an acting career spanning decades and roles in iconic films such as Pirates of the Caribbean and Edward Scissorhands, the honor comes at a pivotal time as Depp transitions from actor to director once again.The Rome Film Festival, running from October 16 to 27, will serve as the perfect stage for the Italian debut of Modi, drawing attention to both Depp’s evolving career and his vision as a filmmaker. As Depp continues to navigate his artistic journey, Modi promises to be a compelling exploration of a tormented artist and the price of creative genius.