Ti West is set to direct a new adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale, A Christmas Carol, for Paramount Pictures, with Johnny Depp taking on the iconic role of Ebenezer Scrooge. This exciting project is based on a script by Nathaniel Halpern, noted for his work on the series Legion and for creating Tales from the Loop, a series West has previously directed for.
The film has reportedly been in stealth development at Paramount for a considerable time, with efforts already underway to finalize the rest of the cast. Ti West has garnered attention for his work on the acclaimed A24 horror trilogy comprising X, Pearl, and MaXXXine, all featuring Mia Goth. His filmography also includes notable titles such as The Roost, Trigger Man, The Innkeepers, The House of the Devil, and Valley of Violence.
For Johnny Depp, this film marks a significant return to studio filmmaking after a lengthy hiatus. He is widely recognized for his roles in various successful films throughout his career, including the Pirates of the Caribbean series, Edward Scissorhands, and What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, among others. Depp began his acting career with a role in the 1984 horror film The Nightmare on Elm Street.
Originally published in 1843, A Christmas Carol tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, who undergoes a transformative journey after being visited by the spirits of his deceased business partner and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. This beloved narrative has inspired countless adaptations over the years, with the first film version appearing in 1901. The most recent adaptation, Spirited, featuring Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds, was released in 2022.
Filming for West’s version of A Christmas Carol is scheduled to commence at the beginning of 2026, generating anticipation for how this iconic story will be reimagined. The collaboration between West’s unique directorial style and Depp’s dynamic acting is expected to bring fresh perspectives to this timeless holiday classic.