Johnny Depp transforms into Ebenezer Scrooge in new Christmas film from horror director Ti West

Johnny Depp is taking on one of literature’s most famous misers this Christmas, stepping into the role of Ebenezer Scrooge in Ebenezer, a new adaptation of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol. Directed by X and Pearl filmmaker Ti West, the film arrives in UK cinemas on 13^th November, with Depp discussing his transformation into the character in a newly released behind-the-scenes featurette.

The story follows the notoriously wealthy and cold-hearted Scrooge, whose contempt for Christmas is challenged when he is visited by three spirits. Forced to confront his past, examine his present and witness a frightening vision of his future, he faces the possibility of changing his ways before it is too late.

Joining Depp is an ensemble cast featuring Harry Potter star Rupert Grint, Daisy Ridley, Sam Claflin, Andrea Riseborough and Ian McKellen, alongside Arthur Conti, Ellie Bamber, Henry Lloyd-Hughes, Charlie Murphy and Tramell Tillman.

West’s involvement brings a particularly interesting dimension to the adaptation. Having made his name with the horror trilogy X, Pearl and MaXXXine, the director is turning his attention to a story already filled with ghosts, unsettling visions and the threat of death. The screenplay comes from Nathaniel Halpern, whose previous work includes Legion and Tales from the Loop.

First published in 1843, Dickens’s novella has inspired generations of screen adaptations, from the 1951 film starring Alastair Sim to The Muppet Christmas Carol. Depp now joins that long line of Scrooges, bringing his experience of eccentric and macabre characters in films such as Edward Scissorhands, Sleepy Hollow and Sweeney Todd to the role.

With its supernatural story, horror filmmaker and distinctive leading man, Ebenezer arrives just in time to bring a darker edge to the festive cinema season.

The editorial unit

Ebenezer is released nationwide on 13^th November 2026.

Watch the trailer for Ebenezer here: