Ebenezer: First reactions to the new Johnny Depp movie – Here's what the critics are saying

Johnny Depp is making a comeback as the lead actor in a new movie. And now the first reactions are in. In "Ebenezer," Depp takes on the role of the bitter businessman Ebenezer Scrooge. The film is set in 19th-century London and is based on Charles Dickens's 1843 "A Christmas Carol." As in the famous story, Scrooge is haunted by three ghosts in the new film adaptation, forcing him to confront his past, present, and future.

As for Depp's performance, the opinions of critics who have already seen director Ti West's film are pretty clear-cut. It has been praised almost universally. We'll find out how the reviews for "Ebenezer" pan out across the board as soon as the detailed reviews are published. However, the initial reactions posted by critics on social media already give us a first impression of how the film is being received.

What the critics are saying about Ebenezer

One aspect that is repeatedly highlighted in the social media reviews is Johnny Depp's performance. Kevin Travers, for example, writes:

"Johnny Depp delivers an amazing performance in the #EbenezerMovie. The entire ensemble is outstanding helping to create the perfect atmosphere for a slightly darker tone of a holiday classic."

Andre Saint-Albin is also enthusiastic about the lead actor and speaks very highly of the film in general:

"#Ebenezer is a dark, magical, and deeply moving retelling that hits every emotion. Johnny Depp is outstanding as Ebenezer Scrooge! Deliciously unpleasant, heartbreaking, and completely captivating."

Ashley Carter's reaction is somewhat more reserved, though she, too, is impressed by Depp's performance:

"#Ebenezer is a pretty standard adaptation with the heart of Dickens' classic still intact. [...] The supporting cast is solid and Depp, who doesn't go too over-the-top, delivers a great performance."

Alex Kokke isn't particularly impressed by the film, but he, too, appreciates Depp's performance:

"#Ebenezer is a stylish gothic take on A Christmas Carol, but without anything new to say and it's just the same story all over again. [...] Johnny Depp is great, but didn't love it."

As far as Depp's performance goes, Nick Spake's verdict is an exception. For him, the actor is apparently the film's weak link:

"There's a fair deal that works in #EbenezerMovie, especially the makeup effects, Tyler Bates' score, and Ti West's direction leaning into the chilling aspects of this ghost story. There's one aspect that doesn't work, though, and unfortunately, it's Johnny Depp's performance."

After Ebenezer, Johnny Depp can be seen in Day Drinker

Ti West directed "Ebenezer." The screenplay was written by Nathaniel Halpern. Alongside lead actor Johnny Depp, the cast also includes Rupert Grint, Andrea Riseborough, Sam Claflin, Daisy Ridley, Tramell Tillman, and Ian McKellen. Soon, everyone will be able to see for themselves whether the film delivers on quality: "Ebenezer" hits theaters on November 13, 2026.

The movie has already sparked some conversation, as Depp's career has been somewhat quiet in recent years when it comes to new, major roles. Currently, the question is once again being raised as to whether we'll see him as the pirate Jack Sparrow again in the future. The Hollywood star recently commented on a possible comeback in "Pirates of the Caribbean 6," as you can read on KinoCheck. What's been clear for some time: In addition to "Ebenezer," there is another film with Depp that will be released soon. "Day Drinker" hits theaters on March 26, 2027. The trailer offers a sneak peek: