Johnny Depp film ‘Ebenezer’ gets actor first No. 1 opening in 8 years
Johnny Depp returns to the top of the box office with his first studio movie in eight years, as Ebenezer opened to about $19 million in 3,535 theaters and sparked discussion about his career rebound amid past controversy. The Dickens-inspired thriller directed by Ti West marked a solid, though not blockbuster, start and debuted internationally to roughly $23 million, contributing to a global opening near $42 million. Audiences skewed older and female, and a majority indicated they would recommend the film, even as critics gave it mixed reviews (Rotten Tomatoes around 52%). The comeback remains uncertain, but momentum could hinge on long-term appeal and subsequent releases, including Day Drinker slated for March. Industry observers note the personal lives of stars often influence perceptions less than the film itself, underscoring a wait-for-long-term-performance dynamic.
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Ebenezer opened to about $19 million domestically across 3,535 theaters, marking Depp's first studio release in eight years.
Internationally, the film added about $23 million from 63 markets, driving a total global debut around $42 million.
The PG-13 period piece stars Depp alongside Rupert Grint, Andrea Riseborough, Sam Claflin and Daisy Ridley, and is directed by Ti West.
Exit polling showed a demographic skew toward women (about 52%) and adults over 25 (81%), with roughly two-thirds of ticket buyers indicating they’d definitely recommend the film.
Critical reception was cooler than audience reception, with Rotten Tomatoes around 52%, while the film’s overall momentum faced scrutiny amid Depp’s off-screen history.
Depp’s next project, Day Drinker, is scheduled for a March release from Lionsgate, as analysts weigh whether this marks a meaningful comeback or a temporary resurgence.
Other new releases this weekend included Ghost Soldier and How to Rob a Bank, both opening with roughly $5 million in the U.S., contributing to a slower overall frame of about $86 million in domestic box office.