With "Transcendance" coming out this weekend, I want to take a look at my favorite Johnny Depp Films. The actor has made a number of great films and has given unforgettable performances bringing wonderful characters to life. While I haven't seen all of his films, including "Secret Window," "Blow" or even "Edward Scissorhands," these are the movies for which I have admired him for in the past few years.
5. "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl" - While there are four films in this series, and soon there will be a fifth, this still the best one of the franchise and the most fresh. Even though the film stars Keira Knightley and Orlando Bloom as the leads, it was Depp who stole the show. The actor created an iconic character in Jack Sparrow that many actors later tried to copy, and Depp himself overused in recent films. However, "The Curse of the Black Pearl" was filled with impeccable comic timing and witty dialogue that made Depp's performance thrilling.
4. "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" - While many critics and fans of the original 1971 film complained about Depp's performance, I relished his whimsical turn as the iconic Willy Wonka. Tim Burton and Depp managed to not only make it funny and quirky but they also gave Wonka a dark edge that was missing from the 1971 masterpiece. Filled with beautiful sets, costumes and a great score, "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" is an incredible ride that should not be missed.
3. "Chocolat" - Depp fans may forget that he played a crucial role in Lasse Hallstrom's film, however, this is one of the films where we get to see a gentle and subtle Depp. While his character is a supporting role, his portrayal of Roux, a musician who falls in love with Juliette Binche's Vianne Roucher, is unforgettable. The movie itself is also a wonderful and magical piece.
2. "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber on Fleet Street" - Depp's performance in the film garnered him an Oscar nomination and deservedly so. The actor is not the best of singers and at times his voice may be piercing to listen to. However, what is most important is what Depp does with the text of the music and how he creates such unpredictable characters. Burton and Depp bring the tragedy of Sweeney Todd to life from the beginning using dark hues, but they also experiment with a diverse arrangment of camera movements. The movie is a triumph and one that ranks among Burton and Depp's best collaborations.
1. "Finding Neverland" - Most Depp fans are used to seeing the actor play something whimsical, off edge or crazy, but in this Marc Foster film he is completely polished and refined. His performance is that of a reserved man. However, there are still moments where he brings his charismatic screen persona to the film. The actor also has wonderful chemistry with Kate Winslet, Julie Christie and Dustin Hoffman. Foster's film is also a beautiful, warm and heartfelt movie that will charm audiences.