Johnny Depp has credited Al Pacino for encouraging him to return to the director's chair for their upcoming biopic, ‘Modi.’ The film, currently in production, explores the life of Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani over a 48-hour period in Paris during World War I. This marks Depp's first directorial effort since 1997’s ‘The Brave’, in which he also starred alongside Marlon Brando.
In a statement, Depp revealed that it was Pacino—who portrays the real-life French art collector Maurice Gangnat in the film—who inspired him to take on the project.
“Embarking on this cinematic journey as the director of Modi has been an incredibly fulfilling and transformative experience,” Depp stated. “I want to express my deep gratitude to the entire cast, crew, and producers for their unwavering dedication and creativity. To Al, who requested that I make this film—how could I say no to Pacino? I truly appreciate his talent and commitment to this project.”
Depp continued, “Modi is a testament to the collaborative spirit of independent filmmaking, and I am thrilled to share this unique and compelling story with the world.”
Behind-the-scenes images have also been released. The film stars Italian actor Riccardo Scamarcio as Modigliani, supported by Antonia Desplat, Stephen Graham, and Sally Phillips. According to a press release, Modi will chart Modigliani's tumultuous 48 hours, highlighting a chaotic series of events through the streets and bars of war-torn Paris during World War I.
“On the run from the police, Modi’s desire to flee the city and escape his career is dismissed by fellow Bohemians. The chaos reaches a peak when he encounters a collector who has the power to change his life.”
‘Modi’ is Depp’s first project since his role in Jeanne du Barry, a film by director Maïwenn centered on Louis XV and his mistress, Jeanne.
