A highly anticipated pairing is set to bring a classic ghost story to the big screen. Paramount Pictures has slated a November 2026 theatrical release for Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol. The film will star Johnny Depp (Pirates of the Caribbean) as Scrooge, in his first major studio role in years. Depp has been on break from Hollywood since his legal battle with his ex, Amber Heard, which ended in 2022.
The film is from horror auteur Ti West. West will direct this chilling, dark version of Charles Dickens’ novella. In it, Ebenezer Srooge’s supernatural journey forces him to confront his life and ultimately fight for redemption.
The film, written by Nathaniel Halpern, also features Oscar nominee Andrea Riseborough, who co-stars alongside Depp. Riseborough recently starred in the chilling horror film Good Boy (not to be confused with the movie Good Boy told from the perspective of a dog).
Both West and Depp have a long history of unforgettable dark films. West is behind the “X” trilogy, which includes X, Pearl, and MaxXxine, V/H/S, The Sacrament, and the series “Them.” Johnny Depp has a long career filled with notable films like Cry-Baby, Platoon, the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, and Nightmare of Elm Street.
Intriguingly, the new Ti West feature is not the only horror take on the holiday classic in development. Director Robert Eggers and star Willem Dafoe are also preparing their own dark adaptation of a Christmas Carol.
Depp and West’s version promises a unique blend of supernatural thrills and period drama, ensuring a haunting start to the the Christmas season, premiering November 13, 2026. And let’s be honest, it’s Johnny Depp, of course we’re going to watch it.
