Johnny Depp has stunned fans with a dramatic new appearance in the first look at his upcoming film Day Drinker. The actor, known for his chameleon-like transformations, sports long salt-and-pepper hair, a bushy gray beard, and striking blue or green contact lenses, making him nearly unrecognizable . The Lionsgate thriller reunites Depp with frequent collaborator Penélope Cruz, marking their fourth on-screen partnership .
Directed by Marc Webb (The Amazing Spider-Man, Snow White), Day Drinker follows a private-yacht bartender (Madelyn Cline) who encounters Depp’s mysterious guest, leading them into a dangerous entanglement with a criminal figure played by Cruz . The film is Depp’s first major Hollywood project since his legal battles with ex-wife Amber Heard .
Depp’s Dramatic Physical Transformation
The first image of Depp in Day Drinker reveals a stark departure from his usual look. His long, tied-back gray hair, full beard, and colored contacts create an almost ghostly presence. Dressed in a sharp navy suit, he holds a cocktail while gazing ominously into the distance .
Fans and media outlets have compared his appearance to late actor Ray Liotta, with many praising the bold new style . The drastic change aligns with Depp’s history of immersive character work, from Pirates of the Caribbean’s Captain Jack Sparrow to Edward Scissorhands .
Reuniting with Penélope Cruz
Day Drinker marks the fourth collaboration between Depp and Cruz, who previously starred together in Blow (2001), Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011), and Murder on the Orient Express (2017) . Cruz plays a criminal figure who complicates the dynamic between Depp’s enigmatic guest and Cline’s bartender .
Director Marc Webb expressed excitement about the project, stating:
“I’m excited to be starting production with Johnny, Madelyn, Penélope, and this incredible cast. We’re in a beautiful location with a fantastic crew and a thrilling, ferocious story to tell. This is gonna be fun.”
A Return to Hollywood Spotlight
After years of legal disputes and independent projects, Day Drinker signals Depp’s return to mainstream Hollywood. His recent roles, including the French film Jeanne du Barry and directing Modi: Three Days on the Wing of Madness, were smaller in scale compared to this studio-backed thriller .
The film also introduces new cast members, including Manu Ríos (Elite), Arón Piper (The Mess You Leave Behind), Juan Diego Botto (The Suicide Squad), and Anika Boyle in her feature debut . Production is currently underway in Spain, with Lionsgate planning a wide release .
Behind the Scenes of Day Drinker
The screenplay, written by Zach Dean (The Gorge), promises a suspenseful narrative filled with unexpected twists. Thunder Road Films, known for the John Wick series, is producing alongside 30West .
Depp’s involvement has drawn significant attention, with social media buzzing over his transformed look. Some fans joked about his character’s name, Day Drinker, referencing his past roles involving alcohol . Others celebrated his return to high-profile projects .
