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February 2008
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Found by MyTreasure at EvansRadioblog
And, at an Oscar party Sunday night, Johnny Depp and Daniel Day Lewis were in serious conversation, they’ll ask their agents to search for a movie project they can do together. That would be hot!
Found by TheCapsWench
Feb 29, 2008
Wanted: Men no taller than 6-foot-1; women no taller than 5-foot-8; and thin children. Men should show up in a dark suit and tie and overcoat. Long hair is OK, just pull it back it in a ponytail.Women should wear a dark to medium dress or skirt and sweater, overcoat, and pumps with medium heels. Set your hair in curlers the night before and come with it brushed out.
Report for duty (with a pen and recent color photo) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday at Lane Tech High School, 2501 W. Addison St., Chicago.
From E! Online
AMERICA'S MOST WANTED: Johnny Depp and Stephen Dorff, hanging at the Manor nightclub in Chicago, where they're shooting the upcoming flick Public Enemies.
From MadScntst found at Digital Spy
Tuesday, February 26 2008, 15:08 GMTBy Alex Fletcher, Entertainment Reporter
Prince purple Oscars party had peep showRex Features
Veteran rocker Prince treated guests at his purple-themed Oscars party to a private peep show.The '1999' singer insisted guests including George Clooney, Johnny Depp and James McAvoy wore purple coloured outfits for the bash, say reports.
A source is quoted as saying: "Purple has always been Prince's favourite colour. He decided the guests must wear something purple.
"All the drinks and food were purple and the house was given a purple makeover."
The event, which is rumoured to have cost £200,000, was held at Prince's $10 million mansion in LA.
He also reportedly treated his guests to an erotic show, which they could view through cutouts behind a large curtain.
Seven females and one male performed raunchy dance routines on poles and motorbikes, according to the New York Post.
From Cinematical (and a video there)
Stars in Rewind: Brad Pitt and Johnny Depp Kill Kids with Mullets
Posted Feb 25th 2008by Monika Bartyzel
Filed under: Fandom, Brad Pitt, Johnny Depp, Trailers and Clips, Stars in Rewind
We've already brought you Brad Pitt selling Pringles. But how about the good old days when Brad acted his young heart out? Well, you could say acted, but his talents back in the '80s do not reveal the success to come. You can search around and find some embarrassing clips from his stint on Dallas, but I thought I would throw up a little pirate flavor.
Back in 1988, Pitt popped up as a high school student in an episode of 21 Jump Street. Along with Captain Jack Johnny Depp and Peter DeLuise (who is currently a director on the new Canadian show jPod), you'll also notice Cheryl Pollak -- who played smartie Paige Woodward in Pump Up the Volume. So her brother spends a night in jail, with his super-saucy mullet, and letterman-jacket Pitt teases him mercilessly because the bad dude partied without him. I have to say, Pitt's voice sure got deeper over the years. Brad totally could've pulled off a cross-dressing role back then.
From Page Six
Hot Couples
Sun. Feb. 24, 2008 by The Sixers
It's not just the dresses on the red carpet that make us sit up and take notice, it's the couples, too. For instance, as much as we love Johnny Depp, the fact that he's got partner Vanessa Paradis on his arm is even better.
Throw in Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart, Seal and Heidi Klum, George Clooney and Sarah Larson, Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban, John Travolta and Kelly Preston, Anne Hathaway and Raffaello Follieri, Jessica Alba and fiancé (and baby daddy) Cash Warren, and a few others, and you've got enough hot couples to make all the other awards shows green with envy.
Take that, ESPYs!
From LaineyGossip
Best Oscar Porn: Johnny & Vanessa
Hers was my favourite black dress – beautifully constructed, up close you could see the gathers, and the way it fit around her waist was amazing. It was the first time I’d seen them together… was well worth the wait.Between Johnny and Vanessa, it’s not really porn like Pitt Porn - the kind of porn that causes a hush along a press line, or the kind of porn that makes evened seasoned journalists giddy – but rather a sweetness that affirms it is possible to find something authentic in a town that is for the most part so full of sh*t. Corny. Sorry. But true.
They had their hands clasped the entire time, almost always side by side. If anything it seems like she’s the one steadying him. They don’t speak much to each other, at least not openly. And it’s not in a bad way. It sounds corny again but it’s almost as though they’re communicating without anyone else hearing it – I say this because most of the time the expressions on their faces are exactly the same. And they don’t have to look at each other either to know exactly what to do next, when to stop, where to turn, without tension or pulling, relaxed body language and completely in sync. You can’t take your eyes off them, it’s completely mesmerising. Like the Pitts, only with the Pitts you’re standing there with your mouth open, drooling, and even a little hot and uncomfortable.
With the Depps, it’s just a big, goofy, hokey smile and a lot of “awwww”-ing. Cheesy, yes. But they are impossibly irresistible. And of course there’s some sexy in there too.
Like when they stopped at the photo wall directly behind us. The photogs were yelling at them to split up so they could shoot Vanessa alone in her dress. The couple was reluctant at first, and then with seemingly great difficulty, Vanessa stepped forward to pose. Johnny too obliged for a few shorts seconds before retreating behind his handler and ducking away from the cameras to watch and wait for Vanessa.
While he was watching, someone stopped to say a few words. He turned and a moment later, she wrapped up and went to rejoin him. As soon as she took her first step – and she was at least 10 steps from reaching him – he automatically knew to reach one hand behind and kept it there, stretched out, palms wide, waiting for her to clasp it.
So she came up from behind him and with her right hand caressed from his right hip, palm open across his ass, with pressure, and then tucked it into his left hand. He squeezed without missing a beat in his conversation.
These are the small things that make you weak inside, non?
From Gloss Lip
Johnny Depp Misses The Big Show Again, Why Some Actors Never Get The PrizeRight before the Oscars aired last night, we watched a Barbara Walters special which featured actor Harrison Ford. Harrison was discussing his long and distinguished career with Walters, with some sneak peeks at the new Indiana Jones movie. Harrison, 65, has never won an Oscar. He was nominated once for his role in the 1985 film Witness, but lost to William Hurt who won for Kiss of the Spider Woman.
It seemed inconceivable that an actor as revered and talented as Harrison Ford had never won an Oscar. Ford’s certainly not short on monetary success, having starred in huge blockbuster films like the Star Wars triology, all the Indiana Jones films, as well as cult faves like Blade Runner and American Graffiti, but alas the gold statue has eluded him.
When you consider Ford’s age, and dwindling opportunity for roles which might garner Academy Award attention, the chances at this point of him winning an Oscar are slim. That seems an incredibly harsh reality. And dare I say, unfair.
This brings me to Johnny Depp, an actor who has been through many ups and downs in his career, but in the last few years has been on a real high. Essentially, through his own inimitable style, Johnny carried a somewhat off-the-wall Disney film, (based on a popular ride at Disneyland) and turned the film Pirates of the Caribbean into a HUGE financial enterprise. His depiction of Captain Jack, an 18th century metro-sexual pirate of questionable morals, was incredibly brilliant. But then again, Johnny Depp is an amazing character actor. I can imagine anyone else playing a modern day Willy Wonka, or any of the other quirky roles he is best known for.
Depp’s collaboration with director Tim Burton has created some great films, including Edward Scissorhands, Ed Wood, Sleepy Hollow, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Corpse Bride and his latest Sweeney Todd. One of my personal favorites is his portrayal of Gilbert Grape from What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. Johnny has been nominated for three Academy Awards, J.M. Barrie (author of Peter Pan) in Finding Neverland, Captain Jack Sparrow, Pirates of The Caribbean, and his latest role as Sweeney Todd, the murderous barber looking for revenge in the film Sweeney Todd.
This year’s winner for Best Actor was Daniel Day-Lewis in There Will Be Blood, a brilliant actor certainly, but one who’s already been honored by the Academy. My first thought when Daniel won (besides who the hell dressed he and his wife?) was “Why not Johnny, or Viggo Mortenson for that matter, I mean let’s not get greedy there Daniel.” Of course, this response was utterly inappropriate and without any real merit or objective basis, but still. It kind of raised my hackles when I thought back to poor old Harrison Ford and his year-after-year snubs, his age, what’s left of his opportunities to win an Oscar and how bad I’d feel to have lived my life working hard, doing brilliant work and never fully actualizing my dream of winning the highest achievement in achievement.
Demoralizing to say the least. Of course Johnny Depp, Viggo Mortenson and another favorite of mine, Leonardo Di Caprio (his portrayal of Howard Hughes in The Aviator is one of the finest ever) are young enough to have numerous opportunities to play roles which will hopefully showcase their talent, and it their lucky, win an Oscar.
But then again, with guys like Daniel Day-Lewis (2 Academy Awards), Jack Nicholson (3 Academy Awards), Tom Hanks* (2 Academy Awards) and Denzel Washington* (2 Academy Awards) hoarding all the golden statues, they may end up like Harrison Ford, looking back over their lives and wondering what they might have done differently.
Not sure what the answer to this conundrum is, but surely, like with all honors, there’s some politics and snobbery going on. And dammit, I don’t like it one bit. Spread the love Academy, give some others a chance.
(Both of these are favorite actors of mine, so I am NOT picking on them for anything other than multiple wins)
From PEOPLE Online
"Clothes!"– Johnny Depp, when asked what he was wearing on the red carpet. Eventually, he gave a straight answer: Armani.
From the Daily Telegraph
Depp's step into stardom
By Bruno LesterFebruary 24, 2008 12:00am
IT is ironic that it was Johnny Depp's flair for the eccentric that thrust him out of Hollywood's fringe and into blockbuster brilliance.
By his own admission, John Christopher Depp II is on a roll.
After years of left-field film choices, the man better known as Johnny Depp is on a commercial and critical high, thanks, in no small part, to a dreadlocked pirate called Captain Jack Sparrow.
With more than a nod to Rolling Stone Keith Richards and displaying a hitherto little known talent for comedy, Depp’s performance as Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean trilogy has turned the 44-year-old from cult figure to huge star – and his ability to turn the unusual into the irresistible put the most bums on American cinema seats last year.
But while Sparrow may have been his most commercially successful part to date, Depp hasn’t turned his back on the more quirky roles he does so well.
Can you imagine anyone else playing the delightfully loopy Willy Wonka in the 2005 remake of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory?
Not to mention the mad-haired, murderous barber in his latest film – Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street – which could land Depp an Oscar for best actor at tonight’s Academy Awards in Hollywood.
And all this from a man who didn’t really want to become an actor. As a teenager, the Kentucky-born, Florida-raised Depp had dreams of becoming a musician and played bass in punk band The Kids.
The group’s unsuccessful move to LA made actor-pal Nicolas Cage suggest Depp meet his agent, if only as a financial stopgap.
“I wasn’t interested in acting,” recalls Depp. “I just wanted to earn some money. I figured I’d keep doing it until (the work) ran dry.”
A few roles later, ‘Johnny’ became the pin-up star – to his frustration – of TV’s 21 Jump Street.
Luckily, an up-and-coming director called Tim Burton came to the rescue.
He cast Depp as the tragic Edward Scissorhands in his 1990 film of the same name and the pair have collaborated on a further five films, the latest of which, Sweeney Todd, is based on Stephen Sondheim’s hit Broadway musical.
Depp puts his new-found success (he reportedly made $40.7 million from the Pirates trilogy alone) down to the happiness he’s achieved with his partner, French singer/actor Vanessa Paradis, and their children, Lily-Rose, 8, and Jack, 5.
“My family is my sanctuary. I live for them now,” he says. “I finally found a reason to exist in this world.”
Interviewed in Tokyo, the eccentric, tattooed Depp is as boyishly handsome as ever. He sports glasses, a floppy hat and baggy jeans, his neck and wrists adorned with homemade bead bracelets.
Here, the softly spoken superstar talks about singing up a storm in Sweeney Todd, working with Tim Burton, family life and his unorthodox career.
How did you come to be starring in Sweeney Todd? Are you a fan of musicals?
No, I’ve never been a big fan. Sweeney Todd is large and operatic, and not something I would normally listen to. But how many chances do you get to make a musical about a serial killer?
So, the minute Tim (Burton) approached me, I was in.
Acting is about pushing yourself to the absolute brink of failure, in terms of, if this doesn’t work, it’s going to be real bad. And if it does work, it might be great.
When I’m about to pop my clock, I want to be able to say, 'From this particular period to this particular period, I was solid and I was honest and there were no compromises'.
There’s always the chance you can get away with taking risks for a few movies, and then you’re out on your ear. But I figure, I’ve pumped gas before, I’ve worked construction before.
So, I could do it again, what the heck? It’s still miraculous to me that I’ve been able to stick around all these years."
Singers say Sondheim’s music is notoriously difficult to perform. Did you realise what you were getting yourself into?
Yes, and it was frightening. When Tim asked, 'Do you think you can sing?' I said, 'I don’t know'. But Sondheim approved and said the singing was secondary to hitting the notes emotionally.
But you do have a musical background, thanks to those years playing in The Kids.
But I only sang back-up, and in Cry-Baby (John Waters’ 1990 movie musical), I was dubbed.
I knew I could stay in key, but Sondheim’s melodies are complicated and tough to sing.
How did you prepare for your singing debut?
I started working on it while filming the third Pirates of the Caribbean movie. I had a two-hour drive to work and back home, so I would listen to the score non-stop.
People thought I’d get a singing teacher, but the closer I became to the music and the character, the less I felt I needed a vocal teacher. I needed to do it my own way.
Instead, you made demos with your old friend, recording engineer Bruce Witkin, who was also in The Kids with you.
We worked together in a recording studio in LA, myself in a booth and Bruce at the controls. Working with someone I knew so well was an enormous help. Tim said he really liked the CD. It was the reaction I was praying for.
How would you describe Sweeney Todd?
He’s beyond dark. He’s already dead. He has been dead for years. The challenge in portraying him was taking a character who is slashing people up and still making the audience feel for him.
How did you come up with his unusual look?
His streak of white hair came from the idea he’d been locked away and experienced this hideous trauma. It represented his rage. I wanted his eyes to show what he’d suffered, too. That’s how the heavy, dark rings around the eyes came about.
Do you mind looking bad on camera?
If you have nothing else to deliver underneath your looks, then who cares? Ugliness is better than beauty because it lasts longer and, in the end, gravity will get us all.
You’ve picked some very eccentric roles.
There seems to be a constant theme in things I do, which deals with people who are considered freaks by so-called normal people. But it’s good fun playing characters such as Wonka, Jack Sparrow and Sweeney – characters who do things I’d never dream of doing, or speak to people in a way that I’d never bring myself to.
Have you ever been afraid of going too far and turning the audience against you?
I’ve always considered myself very lucky to still be getting jobs after all the weirdness I’ve put people through (laughs). But all those movies that, by industry definition, were failures, to me were great successes.
The fact Pirates and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory did as well as they did is great. But it’s not changing my approach to the choices I make. I’m still doing the same thing I always did.
Why do you like working with Tim Burton, whose son, Billy, is your godson?
Tim takes chances. I like that. And we’ve never argued. The process is smooth. My only fear when working with him is that I could let him down.
Did you look forward to seeing the end result?
I find it difficult to watch anything I’m in. I still haven’t seen Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I love discovering moments on the set, but I can’t stand seeing the results. There’s always that moment of, why did I do that?
You’ve been nominated for a third Oscar for Sweeney Todd, after Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl and Finding Neverland. What do those sorts of nods mean to you?
I was very surprised by the nominations. It was never anything I strived for. It didn’t make sense.
Are you happy with the way your career has changed over the past five years?
I’ve had the opportunity to do all the things and work with all the people I’ve wanted to, so, yes.
I also enjoy and appreciate the new-found success because of my family.
They have made me a better person and, consequently, a better actor.
I’m more centred than I’ve ever been and I’ve lost most of the confusion that dominated my life.
Before, I didn’t know what happiness was, so I couldn’t have appreciated the happiness my career was bringing me. I used to feel really lonely and I poisoned myself constantly by drinking, not eating right, not sleeping and smoking lots of cigarettes.
If I’d kept going in the old direction, I could have killed myself.
When you made the first Pirates of the Caribbean movie, did you think you would go on to make two sequels?
No (laughs). But to have a performance become so popular is very gratifying. I hadn’t experienced that before. Usually about 20 people see my movies.
The idea that my character is now in a Disneyland ride, and my grandchildren will see that, is absurd.
Was it hard to leave Captain Jack Sparrow behind at the end of filming the Pirates trilogy? There wasn’t hysterical sobbing, but I didn’t want to say goodbye.
Captain Jack brought a lot of good things into my world. I’ll always hold him in very high regard. And if I were approached to play him again, under the right circumstances, I would give it serious thought.
You met your partner Vanessa Paradis 10 years ago. Why did she have such an impact?
She made me feel I was a real human being, instead of someone Hollywood had manufactured. She turned it all around for me with her incredible tenderness and understanding. Very quickly, I realised I couldn’t live without her.
You once said: "Kids are the greatest things that have ever happened to me. I had never thought it was possible to feel such profound, deep love. I used to be horribly wrapped up in my own weirdness but, when my daughter was born, suddenly there was clarity.” Did becoming a father save you from yourself?
I wasn’t angry any more. It was the first purely selfless moment I had experienced. It was liberating.
What’s your lifestyle like these days?
I’m a total homebody. More than anything, I love being with my family.
Is it true you’ve bought a private island in the Bahamas
It’s beautiful and peaceful. It’ll be our base, but we’ll still spend time in France and the US, so our children will grow up in both cultures.
What’s on the cards for you in the future?
My sister and I have this little (production) company and we’ve made some acquisitions that are exciting.
Soon we start shooting Shantaram, based on a beautiful book by Australian writer Gregory David Roberts. Mira Nair (of Monsoon Wedding) is directing and it’s about an ex-heroin addict and escaped convict who flees to Bombay and sets up a health clinic.
You’re now 44. Why do you think you appeal to so many young women?
I don’t know. I think they see some of my films and feel sorry for me.
You’ll freak them out with Sweeney Todd. Ah, finally! (smiles)
It’s a radical left turn.
From The Bosh
JOHNNY DEPP a happy family man!
Gossip, Johnny DeppJohnny Depp plays evil awfully well in his latest flick, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. But in real life, the actor doesn’t seem to have a dark side. In fact, he’s a happy family man, LIFE & STYLE reports.
“I’m where I want to be — and 99.9 percent of that is because I was blessed with my girl and my kids,” Johnny, 44, says, referring to his love of 10 years, singer-actress Vanessa Paradis, 35, daughter Lily-Rose, 8, and son Jack, 5. “I’m pretty fulfilled.” Sure seems that way: Once Johnny starts talking about his beautiful brood, he just can’t stop gushing.
Q: You’re such a famous actor — how important is your family in keeping you grounded?
A: My family is my sanctuary. I live for them. I finally found a reason to exist in this world. There’s nothing like it. I would give away everything if I could only keep my family. They have given me life, and they’re the greatest gift in the world.
Q: How do you keep your romance with Vanessa so strong?
A: I think trust is the most important thing in a relationship, along with the ability to communicate honestly with each other. Once communication stops, that waylays danger.
Q: You and Vanessa never married — do you think you will at some point?
A: We have considered ourselves husband and wife since the day we moved in together. We just haven’t gone through the formality.
Q: How do you feel about having to raise your children in today’s uncertain world?
A: As a parent, my job, besides giving them love and education, is to protect them by not allowing the harsh realities and difficulties of our world into theirs. You’ve got these pure, innocent little things, and all they want is love and happiness.
Q: You move around with your family a lot, having lived in LA and France. Have you always been such a free spirit?
A: Yes. It has to do with my upbringing. I don’t like to be stuck in one place for too long. We were total nomads when I was growing up. We traveled around all the time. It’s ingrained in my being. I think it’s good for kids to get out there and see the world.
Q: You’ve been working a lot lately. What would be your dream vacation?
A: Running around on the beach with the kids and taking them out on the boat. I want to take them swimming with dolphins, though hopefully not with sharks!
By Fabien Montique posted timeFebruary 22, 2008
From Gossip Girls
Sunday, February 24, 2008Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis: Red Carpet Royalty
This guy sweats sex appeal! And Johnny Depp isn’t afraid to let all the ladies that are falling all over him know that he’s a one woman man.
At the 2008 Academy Awards, the “Pirates of the Carribbean” stud arrived on the red carpet arm-in-arm with his longtime sweetie Vanessa Paradis.
And the French actress looked every bit the suitable arm candy for such a renowned and respected actor. She wore a glamorous, plunging neckline black dress, with just enough skin to keep her man’s eyes on her and her alone.
Meanwhile, the “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” actor kept it simple with a black tuxedo, spectacles, and his usual coy smile.
From the SF Gate
(excerpt)
San Francisco Chronicle
One-shoulders rule as Cotillard looks stunningSylvia Rubin, Chronicle Fashion Editor
Monday, February 25, 2008
Daniel Day-Lewis and Johnny Depp were locked in a tie for their similar looks this year, with long hair and shawl-collared tuxedos. Depp jazzed it up with round spectacles; Day Lewis accessorized his look with small hoop earrings.
From AP
NO BUSINESS LIKE SHOE BUSINESS:
Adjusting her dress as she stepped into the theater wings and prepared to take the stage, Jennifer Garner confessed to the stage manager: "I'd like to take my shoes off.""We could do it," he replied.
Instead, she looked skyward and said, "I didn't mean it, karmic dressing gods," and walked in a small circle.
"I'm just going to make sure I'm not going to fall," she explained.
Renee Zellweger had slung her silver Christian Louboutins over her shoulder when Johnny Depp ran into her.
"I like your shoes," Depp said.
"Thanks man," Zellweger replied. "I used to like the shoes."
From Broadway World
Sweeney Todd' Wins Oscar for Best Art Direction
Sunday, February 24, 2008; Posted: 9:13 PM - by BWW News DeskSweeney Todd, the movie-musical adaptation directed by Tim Burton, has won the Academy Award for Best Art Direction by Dante Ferretti and Francesca Lo Schiavo.
Sweeney Todd was also Oscar-nominated for Best Costume Design by Colleen Atwood. Sweeney Todd won the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture Musical or Comedy. Tim Burton was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Director. Johnny Depp, whom won the Golden Globe for his leading role, was also Oscar-nominated in the Best Actor category.
Sweeney Todd fit into the Number 5 spot during its film-premiere weekend on December 21, 2007.
DreamWorks Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures presented a Parkes/MacDonald and Zanuck Company Production, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, directed by Tim Burton. Produced by Richard D. Zanuck, Walter Parkes, Laurie MacDonald and John Logan; Executive Producer Patrick McCormick.
Based on the Broadway musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by Hugh Wheeler; originally staged by Harold Prince. From an adaptation by Christopher Bond, screenplay by John Logan. Johnny Depp and Tim Burton join forces again in a big-screen adaptation of Stephen Sondheim's award-winning musical thriller Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street…
"Depp stars in the title role as a man unjustly sent to prison who vows revenge, not only for that cruel punishment, but for the devastating consequences of what happened to his wife and daughter. When he returns to reopen his barber shop, Sweeney Todd becomes the Demon Barber of Fleet Street who 'shaved the faces of gentlemen who never thereafter were heard of again,'" state press notes. "Joining Depp is Helena Bonham Carter as Mrs. Lovett, Sweeney's amorous accomplice, who creates diabolical meat pies. The cast also includes Alan Rickman, who portrays the evil Judge Turpin, who sends Sweeney to prison, Timothy Spall as the Judge's wicked associate Beadle Bamford and Sacha Baron Cohen as a rival barber, the flamboyant Signor Adolfo Pirelli."
Photos are here - click the button above.
February 26, 2008
Oh Johnny's Poll reveals what you really want to see.
In our most recent poll, the admiers of Johnny voted on which of his upcoming projects they're most anxious to see. Apparently, seeing Johnny portray Barnabus Collins in "Dark Shadows," is the biggest future hit. "Dark Shadows" got almost 60% of the poll's three choices, while "Public Enemies" got about 30% and "Shantaram" was a far third place with 10%. You can participate in our most recent poll HERE and view results of past polls.
From the Dish Rag
The Dish Rag by Elizabeth SneadJohnny Depp chooses Armani!
"Sweeney Todd" best actor nominee Johnny Depp will not, I repeat not, look like this today.
He'll be wearing classy, elegant Armani, not his usual wacky vintage threads.
Who else is doing Armani? More like, who's not!
Martin Scorsese, Harrison Ford, Sean Penn, Casey Affleck, Jason Reitman, George Clooney, Denzel Washington and Jack Nicholson will be sporting Giorgio's formalwear.
Now we wanna know if Cate Blanchett is wearing the big A too.
Stay tuned. I'm at the Hollywood & Highland complex, the sun is peeking out, and the stars are due to start arriving around 2 p.m. I'll be talking to the nominees on the red carpet as they arrive!
From Beanie in Oz comes the burning question...
Let us hope he can win the race for Tinseltown's Top Gong, but win or lose that race, he's still Number 1!!!
From Hollywood Today
Oscars 2008: Should Depp Finally Get His Oscar? Even He’s Not Sure
Friday, February 22nd, 2008
The third time may not be a charm for Depp, but a consistently thriving career would certainly the perfect consolation prizeBy Jonathan Zipper
HOLLYWOOD, CA (Hollywood Today) 2/22/08 – Nominated in the Best Actor category for the third time in his career, Johnny Depp proves time and again that he is one of Hollywood’s most versatile leading men. His rebel looks, good-guy charm, and acting ability often combine to create a rather unforeseen character actor. While the attention and hype would leave many with a sense of entitlement, Depp is always humbled.
“I just want to keep trying stuff,” Depp told Hollywood Today. “I feel like I’ve been so blessed to have had these characters presented to me, come in front of me, in my life. I just hope that I keep getting jobs, and especially I hope that [Tim Burton will] keep giving me jobs.”
“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” marks the sixth project for which the thespian teamed-up with Burton. The others include “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “Corpse Bride,” “Sleepy Hollow,” “Ed Wood,” and “Edward Scissorhands” – one of Depp’s early breakout performances.
Despite working together multiple times to develop interesting characters, Burton found Depp’s portrayal of Sweeney Todd the most exciting.
“I have to say, this was one of my favorite characters that he’s done,” said Burton.
The potential Oscar nomination in hindsight, Depp initially seemed tentative about taking on the role.
“It was challenging – there have been a lot of different Sweeneys over the years,” he said. “I didn’t know if I could sing. I had a feeling that because of my background in music that I could hit a note or two. I didn’t know if I could sustain a note. I really didn’t know if I could pull it off.”
But as far as Oscar voters are concerned, he indeed pulled it off. However, pulling an upset victory over the highly favored Daniel Day-Lewis at Sunday’s ceremony may be another story completely.
From the New York Post
(excerpt)STARS TO SIT PRETTY ON OSCAR'S BIG NIGHT
By CINDY ADAMSFebruary 21, 2008 -- HERE'S where They are sitting Sunday night. Front row, right side of the Kodak Theatre in Oscarville, USA: Clooney, Nicole, Depp, Cate, Forest, Javier. Second row: Tommy Lee, Brolin, Heigl, Zellweger, Mirren, Tom Wilkinson, Patrick Dempsey. Other side front row, Daniel Day-Lewis, James McAvoy, Laura Linney, Casey Affleck . . . Place your bets.
SIX-year-old Focus Features, with its focus on winners - "Broke back Mountain," "Being John Malkovich" and, in year one, "The Pianist" - is up again. For "Atonement" as Best Picture, for its Supporting Actress Saoirse Ronan and for its achievements in art, cinematography, popcorn sales and whateverthehellelse. And for their "Eastern Promises" Best Actor Viggo Mortensen. Co-president James Schamus could also be up for Best Attitude.
Like: "Supposedly Daniel Day-Lewis is in the bag as Best Actor. In some cases we're the underdog. But look at the Super Bowl. Fourth quarter along comes Eli Manning."
Like: "I heard of our Best Picture nomination via a relay call when I was taking my daughter to school. I probably won't get that kind of charge again until maybe she's college-aged."
Like: "I've taken a place at the Chateau Marmont Oscar night. I love to cook. Afterward, I'll cook for our whole group. No matter what, I figure all of us might as well have fun."
Like: " 'Atonement' was an astonishing ride. Look, all I can say is, I'm enjoying every minute of what I do."
From the Dallas News
Actors who haven't won an Oscar, No. 1: Johnny DeppFrom 'Scissorhands' to leading man, his stardom always shines brightly
Friday, February 22, 2008
By CHRIS VOGNAR / Movie CriticNo. 1: Johnny Depp
I'm not sure when Johnny Depp became a great actor, though I know he is one. It might have been the early '90s, when he made the jump from 21 Jump Street to iconoclastic films such as Edward Scissorhands (still my favorite Tim Burton movie), Benny & Joon and What's Eating Gilbert Grape. Or it may have come during his steady climb to leading-man status with the likes of Ed Wood, Donnie Brasco and Finding Neverland.
Whenever it happened, he's now a rare hybrid of top-line star (the Pirates movies, which he does his best to save through sheer force of will) and idiosyncratic player. He has a gleeful lust for the weird and the outré (which helps explain his ongoing collaboration with Mr. Burton), and he carries it off with such conviction and sensitivity that everyone wants to follow along.
[Click image for a larger version]This year he's up for Sweeney Todd , another Burton film and, the way it's looking, another bridesmaid role. He'll be back; I can't wait to see what he does with John Dillinger in Michael Mann's mob movie Public Enemies, or as a Hunter S. Thompson surrogate (his second, after Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas) in The Rum Diary.
Chris Vognar
From Tonight
How Johnny Depp became the world's most desireable man
February 21, 2008By Susan Rushton
'Idiot," Johnny Depp likes to joke, is the German translation of his surname. The swooned-over film actor, who picked up his first Golden Globe for his all-singing portrayal of Sweeney Todd, has, over a 24-year career, gained a reputation for playing the outsiders, rejects and oddballs - the idiots. Big-bucks, twinkly-eyed romantic leads have never held any allure.
Instead, Depp has transmogrified into pallid Edward Scissorhands, kohl-eyed pirate Captain Jack Sparrow and Cry-Baby Walker, the delinquent of John Waters' 1990 Cry-Baby. He has cross-dressed in Before Night Falls and Ed Wood, shaving his legs for the latter.
"I always thought it'd be interesting to see them all in the same room together," Depp says of his characters.
Tim Burton, who's directed Depp six times, describes him as a risk-taker. "He could've gone and made millions as this great-looking lead guy. But no." Depp turned down leads in Speed and Interview With A Vampire, but he's not in penury: he picked up $20-million for each his Pirates Of The Caribbean films, and smaller movies reputedly start at $8-million.
With the straggly beard, skull rings, nerd specs, fedora, leather jackets or Rat Pack suits, Depp doesn't have the clean-cut appeal of a Pitt or a Cruise. His is "a delicate beauty that's startling, perhaps more so for being intermittent ... with a tilt of the head, impossibly handsome," according to Franz Lidz in the New York Times.
On celluloid, Depp does not exude menace or muscularity, but rather a lightness and naturalness. "Johnny doesn't rely on tricks, his acting is about ease and intuition," says Lasse Hallström, who directed him in Chocolat and What's Eating Gilbert Grape?
After the success of the Pirates films, Depp is now a blue-chip Hollywood name with indie appeal. He doesn't play the La-La land games and claims not to have seen the final version of many of his films: "Once my job is done, it's none of my business. I walk away."
In 1983, Depp escaped to LA and joined the Loft Studio school to take acting lessons, but dropped out to concentrate on his band, The Kids. The Kids were successful enough to support the Talking Heads and the B-52s, but Depp was still forced to find sales work. "We sold ink pens. I'd met Nicolas Cage who was, like, a friend of a couple of friends. And he told me one day, 'You should try acting or whatever'."
Depp went to see Cage's agent and, in 1984, landed his first significant role, in Wes Craven's Nightmare On Elm Street, playing a boy who was swallowed by a bed, and he made $1 200 a week . That was followed, in 1986, by a role as a Vietnamese-speaking private in Platoon. But TV gave Depp his big break, as an undercover cop at a high school in 21 Jump Street.
The teen idol image was all but forgotten after his first movie with Burton, Edward Scissorhands. But, even as Depp chalked up critically acclaimed roles in Gilbert Grape and Benny & Joon, he took more drugs. "It was anything I could stuff into my system to medicate, self-medicate, or numb myself," he admits.
The role of Ed Wood, another Burton project, was for Depp "the rocket ship that took me away from that horrible black bleak time". So convincing was his female impersonation, Depp was reportedly considered as the first transvestite cover girl of US Vogue.
During the late '90s, he starred in Don Juan DeMarco, Donnie Brasco, Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas, Sleepy Hollow and Chocolat. In 2001, he played the 1970s cocaine kingpin George Jung. Then came a curious career transition. From that seedy role, Depp moved into the world of Disney, starring as Jack Sparrow in the first Pirates movie in 2003. More than that, fatherhood altered his tastes. "I thought it'd be great to make a movie my kids could watch."
Sweeney Todd, which opens tomorrow, has been hailed as the Burton-Depp relationship at its best. Even Depp's singing has mostly been praised; only the New Yorker's Anthony Lane dismissed his warblings as a "Bowie impression".
If there is criticism of Depp's work as an actor, it is that his weirdos are so emotionally guarded that we never get beneath their skin. "For me, it seems he's been hiding a bit beneath eccentrics and outcasts," says Hallström.
For all his rebellious instincts, Depp is uncomfortable with political statement. In 2003, he tried to withdraw quotes that criticised the Iraq war - dismissing America as "a dumb puppy that has big teeth" - given to Stern magazine in 2003.
Perhaps that attitude will have to change: Depp's production company has bought the rights to the story of the Litvinenko poisoning.
If all else fails, he's kept the scissorhand gloves. "In a couple of years, I may be doing birthday parties at McDonald's - as Edward. You know, $200 a party."
Idiot? Hardly. - The Independent
From NDTVMovies
Puja Talwar (NDTV)Thursday, February 21, 2008: (Los Angeles):
(February 21, 2008):
The countdown to the Oscars has begun and Hollywood's heavyweights are looking for Oscar glory.
It's time to roll out the red carpet, to pick up the best tux in town and practise those acceptance speeches.
The Oscars are round the corner and the movie buffs are wondering which of the men will take home the golden man.
Will the powerful fixer beat the ruthless California oilman or a Vietnam veteran win in favour of a Russian mobster or the bloody barber from fleet street make the final cut.
Odds are in strongly favour of four time Oscar nominee and 98's best actor winner, Daniel Day Lewis. The British actor has swept all the ceremonies so far with his portryal of a ruthless oilman in There Will Be Blood.
He's taken home the Bafta, the Golden Globe and the Screen Actors Guild award so far, can the oscar be far behind?
He is up against strong competition from another Academy Award winner. Actor George Clooney is a serious contender for his turn as attorney Micheal Clayton.
Also in the league of extraordinary gentlemen is two times Oscar nominee Johnny Depp for Sweeney Todd, the adaptation of Steven Sodnheims stage musical about a demon barber in Victorian London, who embarks on a murderous plan of revenge against the corrupt judge who ruined his life.
The Oscar glory has eluded Depp for a while, will this be the year when one of the Hollywood's most interesting talents gets his due?
Also in search of Oscar gold is the two time nominee, Tommy Lee Jones. He has put in a powerful performance as Hank Deefield, a Vietnam war veteran in search of his son in the Valley of Elah.
Or could the stakes be in favour of first time nominee Viggo Mortensen best knowm as aragorn in the lrd opf the rings trilogy. In David Cronenberg 's Eastern Promises, the actor plays a henchman of a Russian mobster.
So, this year while we wait for the best man to win, it seems that it actually is a battle between the bad guys.
From the Saturn Awards - Academy of Science Fiction Fantasy and Horor Films“300” battles “Harry Potter” and “Sweeney Todd” at the 34th Annual Saturn Awards
The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films has announced the nominations for the 34th Annual Saturn Awards. Leading the nominations this year is the groundbreaking film, “300” with 10 nominations. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” follows close behind with 9 nominations and Tim Burton’s “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” is represented with 8 nominations.
A trio of fantastic adventures: “The Golden Compass”, “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”, and “Spider-Man 3” received 4 nominations each, while “The Bourne Ultimatum”, “Eastern Promises”, “Enchanted”, “Grindhouse”, “The Mist”, “No Country For Old Men”, “Stardust”, and “There Will Be Blood” each received 3 nominations.
Warner Bros. leads the nominations this year with a total of 23. Paramount follows closely behind with 22 nominations (combining the releases of Paramount, DreamWorks/Paramount, and Paramount Vantage). Buena Vista received a total of 10 nominations, with Sony Pictures capturing 9 nominations. New Line Cinema received 6 nominations. Dimension Films / MGM is represented with 5 nominations
In television, “Lost” dominated with 7 nominations. Showtime’s “Dexter” carved an impressive 5 nominations and “Heroes” soared with 4 nominations.
The organization also announced two special awards to be given this year: Guillermo del Toro will receive the coveted George Pal Memorial Award. Author Tim Lucas has been singled out to receive a Special Achievement Award for his 2007 book: Mario Bava: All the Colors of the Dark. This critical study of the film work of Director Mario Bava is a life long project and labor of love from author Lucas who spent over 20 years seeing the completion and eventual publication of the book, ably supported by his wife, Donna Lucas.
The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films is a non-profit organization devoted to honoring, recognizing and promoting genre entertainment. The organization was founded in 1972 by film historian Dr. Donald A. Reed. It is currently headed by film enthusiast Robert Holguin. This year’s show will take place on Tuesday, June 24, in Universal City, California.
The 34th Annual Saturn Award Nominations
Best Science Fiction Film
Cloverfield (Paramount)
Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (20th Century Fox)
I Am Legend (Warner Bros.)
The Last Mimzy (New Line Cinema)
Sunshine (Fox Searchlight)
Transformers (DreamWorks SKG / Paramount)
Best Fantasy Film
Enchanted (Walt Disney Studios)
The Golden Compass (New Line Cinema)
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Warner Bros.)
Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End (Buena Vista)
Spider-Man 3 (Sony)
Stardust (Paramount)
Best Horror Film
30 Days of Night (Sony)
1408 (Dimension Films / MGM)
Ghost Rider (Sony)
Grindhouse (Dimension Films)
The Mist (Dimension Films / MGM
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (DreamWorks SKG / Paramount)
Best Action / Adventure / Thriller Film
3:10 to Yuma (Lionsgate)
300 (Warner Bros.)
The Bourne Ultimatum (Universal)
Live Free or Die Hard (20th Century Fox)
No Country for Old Men (Miramax)
There Will Be Blood (Paramount Vantage)
Zodiac (Paramount)Best Actor
Gerard Butler (“300”) (Warner Bros.)
John Cusack (“1408”) (Dimension Films / MGM)
Daniel Day-Lewis (“There Will Be Blood”) (Paramount Vantage)
Johnny Depp (“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”) (DreamWorks SKG / Paramount)
Viggo Mortensen (“Eastern Promises”) (Focus Features)
Will Smith (“I Am Legend”) (Warner Bros.)
Best Actress
Amy Adams (“Enchanted”) (Walt Disney Studios)
Ashley Judd (“Bug”) (Lionsgate)
Helena Bonham Carter (“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”) (DreamWorks SKG / Paramount)
Naomi Watts (“Eastern Promises”) (Focus Features)
Belen Rueda (“The Orphanage”) (Picturehouse)
Carice van Houten (“Black Book”) (Sony Pictures Classics)
Best Supporting Actor
Javier Bardem (“No Country for Old Men”) (Miramax)
Ben Foster (“3:10 to Yuma”) (Lionsgate)
James Franco (“Spider-Man 3”) (Sony)
Justin Long (“Live Free or Die Hard”) (20th Century Fox)
Alan Rickman (“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”) (DreamWorks SKG / Paramount)
David Wenham (“300”) (Warner Bros.)
Best Supporting Actress
Lizzy Caplan (“Cloverfield”) (Paramount)
Marcia Gay Harden (“The Mist”) (Dimension Films / MGM)
Lena Headey (“300”) (Warner Bros.)
Rose McGowan (“Grindhouse” – “Planet Terror”) (Dimension Films)
Michelle Pfeiffer (“Stardust”) (Paramount)
Imelda Staunton (“Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”) (Warner Bros.)
Best Performance by a Younger Actor
Alex Etel (“The Water Horse”) (Sony)
Freddie Highmore (“August Rush”) (Warner Bros.)
Josh Hutcherson (“Bridge to Terabithia”) (Walt Disney Studios)
Daniel Radcliffe (“Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”) (Warner Bros.)
Dakota Blue Richards (“The Golden Compass”) (New Line Cinema)
Rhiannon Leigh Wryn (“The Last Mimzy”) (New Line Cinema)
Best DirectionTim Burton (“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”) (DreamWorks SKG / Paramount)
Frank Darabont (“The Mist”) (Dimension Films / MGM)
Paul Greengrass (“The Bourne Ultimatum”) (Universal)
Sam Raimi (“Spider-Man 3”) (Sony)
Zack Snyder (“300”) (Warner Bros.)
David Yates (“Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”) (Warner Bros.)
Best Writing
Roger Avary, Neil Gaiman (“Beowulf”) (Paramount)
Brad Bird (“Ratatouille”) (Walt Disney Studios)
Joel Coen, Ethan Coen (“No Country for Old Men”) (Miramax)
Michael Goldenberg (“Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”) (Warner Bros.)
Michael Gordon, Zack Snyder, Kurt Johnstad (“300”) (Warner Bros.)
John Logan (“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”) (DreamWorks SKG / Paramount)
Best Music
Tyler Bates, Scott Wheeler (“300”) (Warner Bros.)
Jonny Greenwood (“There Will Be Blood”) (Paramount Vantage)
Nicholas Hooper (“Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”) (Warner Bros.)
Mark Mancina (“August Rush”) (Warner Bros.)
Alan Menken (“Enchanted”) (Walt Disney Studios)
John Powell (“The Bourne Ultimatum”) (Universal)
Best Costume
Colleen Atwood (“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”) (DreamWorks SKG / Paramount)
Ruth Myers (“The Golden Compass”) (New Line Cinema)
Penny Rose (“Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”) (Walt Disney Studios)
Sammy Sheldon (“Stardust”) (Paramount)
Jany Temime (“Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”) (Warner Bros.)
Michael Wilkinson (“300”) (Warner Bros.)
Best Make-Up
Howard Berger,
Greg Nicotero,
Jake Garber - (“Grindhouse” – “Planet Terror”) (Dimension Films)
Nick Dudman,
Amanda Knight - (“Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”) (Warner Bros.)
Davina Lamont - (“30 Days of Night”) (Sony)
Ve Neill,
Martin Samuel - (“Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”) (Walt Disney Studios)
Peter Owen,
Ivana Primorac - (“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”) (DreamWorks SKG / Paramount)
Shaun Smith,
Mark Rappaport - (“300”) (Warner Bros.)
Best Special Effects
Tim Burke,
John Richardson,
Paul Franklin,
Greg Butler - (“Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”) (Warner Bros.)
Scott Farrar,
Scott Benza,
Russell Earl,
John Frazier - (“Transformers”) (DreamWorks SKG / Paramount)
Michael Fink,
Bill Westenhofer,
Ben Morris,
Trevor Wood - (“The Golden Compass”) (New Line Cinema)
John Knoll,
Hal Hickel,
Charles Gibson,
John Frazier - (“Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”) (Walt Disney Studios)
Scott Stokdyk,
Peter Nofz,
Spencer Cook,
John R. Frazier - (“Spider-Man 3”) (Sony)
Chris Watts,
Grant Freckelton,
Derek Wentworth,
Daniel Leduc - (“300”) (Warner Bros.)NOMINATION BREAKDOWN
(By number of nominations)
10 – 300
9 – Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
8 – Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
4 – The Golden Compass
4 – Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End
4 – Spider-Man 3
Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End -- (Walt Disney Studios) (4 nominations)
- Best Fantasy Film
- Best Costume: Penny Rose
- Best Make-Up: Ve Neill, Martin Samuel
- Best Special Effects: John Knoll, Hal Hickel, Charles Gibson, John FrazierSweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street -- (DreamWorks SKG / Paramount) (8 nominations)
- Best Horror Film
- Best Actor: Johnny Depp
- Best Actress: Helena Bonham Carter
- Best Supporting Actor: Alan Rickman
- Best Director: Tim Burton
- Best Writing: John Logan
- Best Costume: Colleen Atwood
- Best Make-Up: Peter Owen, Ivana Primorac
From Celebrity Baby Blog
Johnny Depp gushes about fatherhood
By Kaisa, CBB ContributorJohnny Depp, 44, might've been a demon in his latest movie Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street but in real life, he is a doting father to daughter Lily-Rose Melody, 8 ½, and son Jack, 5 ½. He talked to Life & Style about fatherhood and relationship with his partner of 10 years, Vanessa Paradis, 35.
Q: You’re such a famous actor — how important is your family in keeping you grounded?
A: My family is my sanctuary. I live for them. I finally found a reason to exist in this world. There’s nothing like it. I would give away everything if I could only keep my family. They have given me life, and they’re the greatest gift in the world.
Q: How do you keep your romance with Vanessa so strong?
A: I think trust is the most important thing in a relationship, along with the ability to communicate honestly with each other. Once communication stops, that waylays danger.
Q: You and Vanessa never married — do you think you will at some point?
A: We have considered ourselves husband and wife since the day we moved in together. We just haven’t gone through the formality.
Q: How do you feel about having to raise your children in today’s uncertain world?
A: As a parent, my job, besides giving them love and education, is to protect them by not allowing the harsh realities and difficulties of our world into theirs. You’ve got these pure, innocent little things, and all they want is love and happiness.
Q: You move around with your family a lot, having lived in LA and France. Have you always been such a free spirit?
A: Yes. It has to do with my upbringing. I don’t like to be stuck in one place for too long. We were total nomads when I was growing up. We traveled around all the time. It’s ingrained in my being. I think it’s good for kids to get out there and see the world.
Q: You’ve been working a lot lately. What would be your dream vacation?
A: Running around on the beach with the kids and taking them out on the boat. I want to take them swimming with dolphins, though hopefully not with sharks!
From CalendarLive
February 20, 2008WHOOPING IT UP
The strike is off and the Oscar galas, bashes and shindigs are on! We eavesdrop on the party hotline and share the latest with you.
By Irene Lacher, Special to The TimesWarner family dinner
What: Warner Bros.' dinner party for Oscar nominees
Where: An undisclosed Los Angeles-area hotel
When: The Friday before the award ceremony
Who: Nominees George Clooney ("Michael Clayton"), Johnny Depp ("Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street") and Casey Affleck ("The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford")
Spotlight: This is a low-key but exclusive dinner party for nearly 200 studio honchos and friends. "We like to do something intimate," says Courtney Saylor, Warner Bros. vice president for special events. "Being nominated is a fantastic achievement. Why not celebrate that?"
From Female First
Oscars Best Actor - Johnny Depp
February 20, 2008Johnny Depp
Age:
44
Role:
Sweeney Todd in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
Comment on this ArticleCharacter:
Adopting the guise of Sweeney Todd Baker returns to his old barber shop above Mrs Lovett’s pie making premises and sets his sights on Judge Turpin who stole his wife and baby daughter.
Previous Oscar Wins:
None
Previous Oscar Nominations:Two - 2003 Best Actor for Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl.
-2004 Best Actor for Finding Neverland.
Awards for Role:
Depp won Best actor in a Musical or Comedy at the Golden Globes.
Critics:
‘Depp is such a soulful presence he gives you a glimpse of this maniac's pain and pathos.’ Newsweek
‘A thoughtful, sincere and moving film, buttressed by a fine, central performance by an actor at the top of his form.’ Time Out
‘Sweeney Todd is a thriller-diller from start to finish: scary, monstrously funny and melodically thrilling. And Depp is simply stupendous.’ Rolling Stone
FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw
From ABC News
(excerpt)
Oscar Nominees Before They Were Stars
Find Out What Some 2008 Academy Award Nominees Did Before They Made It in Hollywood
Feb. 20, 2008
Every actor has to start somewhere — even the biggest Hollywood stars struggled to pay the rent and auditioned for bit parts in movies and TV shows.Hollywood's hottest hunk George Clooney was in stinkers like "Return of the Killer Tomatoes" and "Return to Horror High," and showed up in TV shows like "Murder She Wrote" and "Riptide."
And who knew that acting elder statesman Tommy Lee Jones was in the 1970 pilot episode of "Charlie's Angels"?
Read on to find out more and see pictures of some of this year's Oscar nominees before they were stars.
Johnny DeppDepp didn't begin his career on the lavish streets of Hollywood, but got an early start by pacing on "21 Jump Street," a hit television show about young looking officers solving crimes, which premiered in 1987.
A few years earlier in 1984, Depp was on another street in "Nightmare on Elm Street" and a big-time Hollywood scene, just unfortunately with a minor role. Depp played the heroine's boyfriend, who also ended up being one of Freddy Kruger's victims unfortunately.
Depp showed off his acting skills and blockbuster potential as the darkly beloved Edward Scissorhands in director Tim Burton's 1990 film. However, a more commercial turn as Jack Sparrow in 2003's "Pirates of the Caribbean" earned him his first Oscar nomination.
From the New York Times
Three Actors Replace Heath Ledger
By THE NEW YORK TIMES
Published: February 19, 2008Jude Law, Colin Farrell and Johnny Depp, from left above, will replace Heath Ledger, in the film he was starring in when he died last month, Ain’t It Cool News reported. The future of the $30 million film, “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus,” a morality tale directed by Terry Gilliam, was thrown in doubt halfway through shooting when Mr. Ledger died of an accidental drug overdose. In the film — which a synopsis says is about a traveling theater troupe that tempts its audiences with the chance to “transcend mundane reality by passing through a magical mirror into a fantastic universe of limitless imagination” — Mr. Ledger was playing a character who is transported into three separate dimensions. These will now be inhabited, instead, by Mr. Depp, Mr. Law and Mr. Farrell.
From Canada.com
Johnny Depp and Jude Law set sights on Vancouver
Star power is reportedly coming to town to shoot The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus
Fiona Anderson, Vancouver Sun
Published: Monday, February 18, 2008VANCOUVER - Star actors Johnny Depp, Colin Farrell and Jude Law are reportedly coming to Vancouver to take the place of Heath Ledger in the film The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus.
The movie was starting shooting here when Ledger was found dead in his Manhattan apartment in January from an accidental drug overdose.
All three stars will share Ledger's character of Tony, the love interest in the Terry Gilliam-directed fantasy film, Reuters reported.
Kirk Shaw, CEO of Vancouver's Insight Film Studios, called the decision to cast three actors to replace Ledger "brilliant."
Adding one love interest in the story - in which Dr. Parnassus offers his daughter's hand in marriage to whoever can beat the devil at seducing souls - might not make sense, whereas adding three would, he said.
"I think Terry Gilliam has done a really good job of rethinking his film to keep the footage that is already shot with [Ledger]," Shaw said.
Filming had just finished in London and had moved to Vancouver when Ledger died.
"I actually think it was brilliant thinking on Gilliam's part on how to alter his story line to introduce new love interests in the film," Shaw said. "And I don't know how he's done it, but I know that's what he's doing."
The addition of the three big names will not necessarily blow the film's $30-million budget out of the water, as all three are rumoured to have agreed to a pay cut in tribute to Ledger, who was best known for his role as a gay cowboy in Brokeback Mountain.
But the new faces could mean a bigger payday for the film because "when they release this film, they've got a huge story," Shaw said.
And that's great for the future of B.C. film-making, he added.
When a successful film is made in B.C. - like Juno, which has been nominated for four Academy Awards, including best picture - "it shows the quality of work that can be done with the crews here," and that attracts more productions to the area, he said.
Pete Mitchell, executive vice-president and chief operating officer of Vancouver Film Studios, said the really good news is that the film was proceeding.
"We all expected it to die," Mitchell said. "It's good news for crews, it's good news for suppliers and it is good news for the industry to have high-profile actors of any kind, especially a Johnny Depp.
"You've got Johnny Depp in town, it creates a lot of interest and [raises the profile of] Vancouver as a place to shoot," he said.
Peter Leitch, president of the Motion Picture Production Industry Association of B.C., agreed the film will "showcase the province" and should be a boon to the industry.
"It's always positive. We've done some shows here in Vancouver that have been successful at the box office, and that's bodes well here," he said.
"More importantly, it shows we're producing world-quality productions that are being shot in Vancouver. ... A lot of these are star-driven, which can be good for the industry."
Infinity Features, which is producing the film, referred questions to its public relations agency in California, which was closed for the U.S. Presidents' Day holiday.
News on the "Sweeney Todd" DVD release HERE
Got an extra $60 laying around? How about getting a Johnny Depp Cookie?
From Mad Scntst - Eleni's cookies of the Oscar Nomaniesand MadScntst's scan from Entertainment Weekly
From MadScntst found at Variety
(excerpt)
'Sweeney,' 'Bourne' top EDDIEs
ACE editing Awards bow in Los Angeles
By MATT KIVEL
The unsung heroes of film editing were given their due at Sunday's 58th annual ACE EDDIE Awards as "The Bourne Ultimatum" and "Sweeney Todd" came away with top honors for feature film -- winning the drama and comedy/musical categories respectively.HBO dominated the two major television categories with wins for "The Sopranos" in the hour-long series category and "Curb Your Enthusiasm" in the half hour series category. Celebrating its 18th year on the air, "Cops" nabbed the EDDIE for non-scripted reality series -- beating out recent primetime powerhouse "Dancing With The Stars."
Michael Moore, who presented the Eddie for feature film (comedy or musical), watched his "Sicko" editors Geoffrey Richman, Chris Seward and Dan Swietlik take home honors in the documentary category.
Carl Reiner presented Academy Award winning director Norman Jewison with the ACE Golden EDDIE filmmaker of the year award -- the ceremony's highest honor. Veteran editors Millie Moore and Bud Smith each received Lifetime Career Achievement awards.
Stand-up comedian Patton Oswald ("Ratatouille") served as the evening's emcee.
From the Sun Sentinel
Fort Lauderdale band pal helped Johnny Depp sharpen singing skills
By Patricia Towle | Special Correspondent
February 18, 2008OK, you never heard of Bruce Witkin.
But if you're watching the Academy Awards on Sunday, you might hear his name.
Johnny Depp — a pal of Witkin's — credits the South Florida native with helping him find his vocal groove.
No small feat when you consider Depp, 44 — who'd never sung a note previously — snagged a Golden Globe and is nominated for an Oscar for his singing performance in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.Having accepted the title role, Depp called Witkin with a plea to help ascertain if he was capable of pulling it off, because director Tim Burton didn't want his actors to lip sync. After privately recording a demo of Depp singing the showcase number My Friends in his Los Angeles studio, Witkin said there was no doubt.
In the film's production notes, Depp admits, "That was the first song I ever sang in my life."
Working from a Broadway cast recording, the two men were forced to pick Stephen Sondheim's demanding melodies apart on the piano and rely on their ears for the vocal lines because neither reads music.
"If there was a long note Johnny needed to hit, he would just get it up and hit it," said Witkin, a 45-year-old sound engineer who records and produces under his own Unison Music label. "To see someone like Johnny, who had never sung before, come into my studio so prepared really blew me away."
Witkin and Depp's friendship dates to 1980, when both played in a Fort Lauderdale garage band called the Kids.
They were so young they often had to sneak in the back doors of clubs — the Button South, the Tree House, the Play Pen and the Candy Store — to play.
"I was the vocalist and played bass; Johnny was our guitarist," recalled Witkin, who dropped out of Hollywood High — with the permission of his mother, a local band manager — to pursue his music career.
"Those early days were a lot of fun and fruitful for guys of our age. We were pulling in around $50 a night between four of us, and we were playing shows and we were surviving."
Depp calls Witkin "a brother." In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, he said, "We worked in bands together, we were on the road together. We lived together when we were teenagers. His mom was basically my second mom." Indeed, last year, at a charity concert in memory of Sheila Witkin, Depp turned up at Club Cinema in Pompano Beach to reunite with his Kids band mates.
After heading to Los Angeles to seek their fortunes, the Kids — a punk/new-wave outfit whose sound was a mix of Ramones, XTC and other '70s-'80s bands of that ilk — survived for a few months before breaking up in 1984, whereupon Depp went into acting. That same year he appeared in A Nightmare on Elm Street — and the rest is box office history.
Witkin continued making music.
He played on bills with Adam Ant, the Romantics, the Pretenders, U2, the Ramones, the B-52's, REM, Chuck Berry, and made an album of his own. But somehow he never hit it big.
"Johnny and I reconnected in 2000, when I started working and touring with his girlfriend Vanessa Paradis, a talented French singer," he said.
Will Witkin's work with Depp in Sweeney Todd open new doors?
"I did it because Johnny's my friend and I wanted him to come out sounding great," Witkin said. "He put this in my hands — and he trusted me with his voice. My goal was for him to be happy with the result.
"I think I succeeded."
From FilmStewDepp's Doppelganger Doing Boffo Business
After wrapping up his busiest month yet as a Johnny Depp impersonator, 44-year-old showbiz veteran Danny Lopez is finding this gig more profitable than those involving a Beatle, a Monkey and a Rolling Stone.
Monday, February 18, 2008 at 9:15 AM
By FilmStew Staff
Danny Lopez as Johnny Depp
It’s a rare thing for someone who looks so much like a celebrity that they can earn a living impersonating them to be born on the exact same date as their famous quarry. But that’s the case with 44-year-old Great Falls, Montana resident Danny Lopez, who was born on June 9th, 1963, the same date as actor Johnny Depp. January, 2008 was Lopez’s busiest month ever as a Depp impersonator, with twelve corporate appearances for companies such as Hyatt and Carfax.com. He’s also appearing this week on a series of special male vs. female celebrity impersonator episodes of the syndicated TV game show Family Feud. And he will certainly get some attention this coming summer with a cameo in the Steve Carell comedy Get Smart; he plays a car wash worker who looks like… Johnny Depp.This is not the first go-round at celebrity impersonation for Lopez, who filmed his first TV commercial when he was seven. Before he hit his stride with Depp duty, Lopez was a member of three different rock’n roll tribute bands: Backbeat (as George Harrison), The Missing Links (as Davey Jones) and Satisfaction (as Keith Richards). That’s right, in the second irony to go along with the birthday date overlap, Lopez has played both Depp and his infamous Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End cameo co-star Richards. It was in fact the Harrison gig that led to the Depp one, as fans at concerts kept telling him that, in that garb, he looked more like Depp. Lopez also knows a celebrity or two himself. According to the Great Falls Tribune, it was actor Dennis Quaid who recommended that the southern California native, tired of the hectic pace of life there, buy a house in Big Country. Lopez tells the paper he has yet to meet Depp, but the actor is apparently aware of his lookalike shadow.
Up next for Lopez is a February 22nd taped appearance on The Maury Povich show, some weekend work at one of the casinos in Cripple Creek, CO and a tentatively booked engagement at an Academy Awards party in Los Angeles on Sunday.
From TransWorldNews
Johnny Depp Nominated for Actor in a Lead Role in “Sweeney Todd the Demon Barber of Fleet Street” at 80TH Academy Awards
Atlanta, Ga. 2/16/2008 11:26 PM GMT (FINDITT)
Johnny Depp will be looking to capture his first Academy Award on Feb. 24 after earning a nomination for Actor in a Lead Role for his performance in “Sweeney Todd the Demon Barber of Fleet Street.’
Depp plays the title character, Sweeney Todd, who unleashes a murderous assault against a variety of clients who sit in his barber’s chair.
Twice Depp has been nominated for an Oscar, “Finding Neverland” and “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” but both times the Academy Award slipped past him.
Joining Depp in the list of nominees for Actor in a Lead Role are George Clooney, “Michael Clayton”; Daniel Day-Lewis, “There Will Be Blood”; Tommy Lee Jones, “In the Valley of Elah”; and Viggo Mortensen, “Eastern Promises.”
The 80th Academy Awards will air Feb. 24 at 8:00 p.m. ET on ABC.
From MTV
Feb 14 2008 7:45 AM EST
'Transformers 2,' 'Justice League Of America,' 'Lost' Sort Out What's Next After Writers' Strike
Oliver Stone Vietnam drama, 'Da Vinci Code' follow-up are also up in the air following months-long work stoppage.
By Shawn Adler
(excerpt)
Three months and billions of dollars in damages later, the writers' strike is officially over, as 92.5 percent of Writers Guild of America members voted to approve a new contract Tuesday.But as writers everywhere shout, "Woo-hoo!," fans are left asking, "What now?" As in, what can they expect out of their favorite shows and filmmakers?
"It's going to be brutal trying to get the town started up, figuring out which movies are still happening, which TV shows are going to try to finish their seasons," screenwriter John August ("Big Fish," "Charlie's Angels") wrote last week on his blog. "You know when there's a big evacuation — fire, hurricane — and the residents are finally allowed back to their houses? It will be like that."
We sifted through some of the remains to find out what was still left standing.
Perhaps the biggest semi-permanent casualty of the strike is Johnny Depp's "Shantaram," which centered on a former heroin addict who reinvents himself as a Bombay doctor. The film was originally supposed to begin filming in February, before an incomplete script forced Depp to sign on to another project, Michael Mann's "Public Enemies." Two independent sources close to the project told MTV News that there is no current movement on the film and that it remains on hold indefinitely.
From the BBCStars to replace Ledger in movie
Heath Ledger
Ledger was found dead at his flat in Manhattan
Jude Law, Johnny Depp and Colin Farrell will appear as Heath Ledger's character in unfinished film The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, the BBC has learned.A spokeswoman for Law said the three would play the role of Tony in the film "subject to negotiations".
She said she did not know how the role would be restructured.
The Terry Gilliam-directed film was halted when Ledger, 28, died from a drugs overdose in the US shortly after filming scenes for the movie in London.
It is thought that original footage of Ledger will remain while Law, Depp and Farrell will play different incarnations of his character, Tony.
The fantasy film follows a travelling theatre troupe which offers audience members the chance to pass through a magical mirror to alternate dimensions.
'Great actor'
Depp, Law, and Farrell are each expected to "become" Ledger's character in one of these new worlds.
Law's spokeswoman said the actor, who is on holiday, was unavailable for comment.
Ledger died from an accidental overdose of six different types of prescription drugs in his New York apartment.
After filming for the movie had finished in London, the $30m (£15.1m) production then moved to Vancouver, Canada for interior and bluescreen scenes before it was suspended upon news of Ledger's death.
At the time, the film's makers described Ledger as "a great actor, a great friend and a great spirit" and said Gilliam and his producers would be "assessing how best to proceed".
Last weekend, international film stars were among mourners at a memorial service for the Ledger in his home town of Perth.
Speakers at the service, which was followed by a private burial for close family only, included actress Cate Blanchett and film director Neil Armfield.
From SlashFilm
(Note from Kazren - until it's a done deal, this is still a rumor)
Breaking: Johnny Depp, Jude Law and Colin Farrell to Pay Tribute to Heath Ledger in Dr. ParnassusPosted on Friday, February 15th, 2008 at 1:06 am by: Hunter Stephenson
Johnny Depp, Jude Law and Colin Farrell to Pay Tribute to Heath Ledger in Dr. Parnassus
All of the rumors, concerns and speculation regarding how Heath Ledger’s unfortunate passing would be addressed in director Terry Gilliam’s The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, in which Ledger had a major role, can now cease. AICN is reporting that three actors will pay tribute by filling in the remainder of Ledger’s performance (to me, this conjures Bob Dylan and I’m Not There), and those actors are…
Johnny Depp
Jude Law
Colin Farrell
In the film, Ledger’s character reportedly falls through a “magical mirror” into an alternate reality, and thus the caveat of these three actors’ interpretations is further supported. But even sans that plot point, this could turn out to be a quite inspiring and tasteful send off to the young actor.
From VarietyDay-Lewis faces worthy rivals
How we got here: Best actor
By STUART LEVINE
Best Actor nominees
Nominees for Best Actor
To see Daniel Day-Lewis is to marvel at the craft of acting at its highest level.Whether he's chatting up a journalist, driving around his Irish hometown or eating a piece of cheese, Day-Lewis comes across as quiet and humble: one who would rather eat glass than talk about his prodigious talent. But on a film set dressed in character, he's Clark Kent sprinting out of a phone booth -- a complete metamorphosis of mind and soul. His manic turn as oil magnate Daniel Plainview in Paul Thomas Anderson's "There Will Be Blood" displays an artist who doesn't just learn a dialect or get a haircut to prepare for a role but rather completely transforms himself for the part.
Among his rivals for Oscar honors, George Clooney has some strong recent history. Two years ago, he received three nominations for "Good Night, and Good Luck" and "Syriana," winning supporting actor for the latter. In "Michael Clayton," Clooney's role as a corporate attorney who "fixes" difficult legal scenarios suited him as perfectly as the finely tailored threads he wore.
Doing bad things is exactly what two other lead actors became very good at in their respective films -- Johnny Depp in "Sweeney Todd" and Viggo Mortensen in "Eastern Promises."
For the former, Depp rose to the challenge of singing while slashing. While he might not have had the vocal chops of a Broadway vet, it would be wrong to say the film's lack of a picture nomination was due to Depp's nothing-less-than-full-throated effort.
Mortensen reteamed with David Cronenberg following "A History of Violence," and his turn as a Russian driver felt as real as a cup of borscht soup in a back-alley Moscow cafe. The actor had no problem exposing himself -- literally, of course -- in a steambath fight scene that is the most talked-about aspect of the film, but it was Mortensen's clothed performance that proved most important to the Academy.
Finally, Tommy Lee Jones, comfortably at home on the Southwest plains, used his less-is-more approach in trying to locate his missing son in the pic "In the Valley of Elah." It's another textured Jones performance in which he doesn't have many scenes with extensive dialogue, but what he did say spoke volumes.
The journey
Sometimes an Oscar race isn't a race at all. Often it's just a procession -- see Daniel Day-Lewis' road to nomination in which he garnered a majority of critics and guild lead actor honors.
Tommy Lee Jones took a more circuitous route. He received strong reviews when "In the Valley of Elah" was released Sept. 28 -- yet he was on few guild or critics' top-actor lists. His single nod came from London's film critics. In all Oscar acting categories, Jones' nom might have been most surprising.
Viggo Mortensen received more attention during the run-up to the nominations than Jones, earning noms for the BAFTAs, Golden Globes and SAG Awards. But Mortensen seemed to fall out of favor until the Globes and SAG nominations were announced in late December. His inclusion in those two high-profile kudofests put him back on track for an Oscar nom.
Johnny Depp was a Broadcast Film Critics and Golden Globes nominee, but that was about it. The fact that "Sweeney Todd" didn't hit theaters until Dec. 21 wasn't a help.
George Clooney took home the National Board of Review's actor prize for 2007. That, along with a Globes nom and SAG nom, made Clooney's Oscar nomination far from surprising.
From Variety
'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End'
Achievement in Makeup Oscar nominee
By CAROLINE RYDER
'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End'
Preventing her pirates' mascara from running during rain-soaked battles on the high seas was the biggest challenge for "Pirates of the Caribbean" makeup artist Ve Neill, who had to ensure that shaggy beards, tattoos and scars remained intact despite intensely soggy conditions.Neill, a three-time Oscar winner (for "Ed Wood," "Mrs. Doubtfire" and "Beetlejuice") has handled makeup for each installment in the "Pirates" trilogy. This latest one, "At World's End," stretched her waterproofing skills to the limit, particularly during shooting of the maelstrom sequence. In it, the main cast plus hundreds of extras and a new contingent of Asian pirates (complete with glued-on Fu Manchus) were continually doused with water while being rocked around a faux pirate ship in an aircraft hangar.
Neill used super-strong adhesive to keep all the facial hair intact plus plenty of spray-on makeup sealant to protect against the "sea." Even so, it was a case of "constant upkeep," Neill says.
Giving her pirates, including Geoffrey Rush (aka Captain Barbossa), that nice leathery, weather-worn complexion was achieved by stretching the skin and applying a rubber compound, which was then blow-dried and powdered to achieve "a great wrinkled effect," she says. "It's the opposite of what the beauty companies are selling, basically."
From MovieWeb
Monday, February 11th, 2008
The Demon Barber of Fleet Street will be coming to your street on April Fools Day. According to Bloody-Disgusting, Sweeney Todd will be released on DVD and HD DVD on April 1.
This release date hasn't been confirmed with Paramount as of yet, and we don't have any pricing details, special features or cover art at this time. We'll update this story as soon as we get the goods on this upcoming DVD.
The story of Sweeney Todd is one of a wrongfully imprisoned barber in Victorian England who sets out to seek revenge on the judge who imprisoned him. The plot is foreshadowed in the first lines of the opening number: "Attend the tale of Sweeney Todd./His skin was pale and his eye was odd./He shaved the faces of gentlemen/Who never thereafter were heard of again."
Found by MadScntst at Variety
At World's End has won two awards from the Visual Effects Society They gave the awards last night. AWE won:
Outstanding Animated Characterin a Live Action Motion Picture
Awarded to "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End - Davy Jones"
Hal Hickel, Marc Chu, Jakub Pistecky, Maia KayserOutstanding Created Environment in a Live Action Motion Picture
Awarded to "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End - The Maelstrom"
Frank Losasso Petterson, Paul Sharpe, Joakim Arnesson, David Meny
From the LA Times
Soundboard
L.A. Times Music Blog
Viper Room sold to Harry Morton
February 11, 2008 5:09pm
The Viper Room, the venerable Sunset Strip venue, has been sold. As of Feb. 1, the new majority owner is Pink Taco founder Harry Morton, whose father, Peter, founded the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Harry Morton, who might be best known in pop-culture circles for once dating Lindsay Lohan, plans to keep the Viper Room name, and he hopes to capitalize on the club’s international cachet by opening other Viper Rooms in cities such as Las Vegas and Scottsdale, Ariz. Former owners Blackhawk Capital will retain a minority stake in the new venture.
In addition, several East Coast cities have expressed interest in having their own Viper Rooms, sources say. Arich Berghammer, president of the yet-to-be-named company overseeing the chain of clubs, says that the Viper Room brand “is strong” and that they will not make significant changes at the management level. “It works as it is,” he says, adding that they will only make minor cosmetic changes to the Sunset Strip location.
Winston himself says that his “goal now is to shine up the gem and expand it nationally and internationally.” The Pink Taco owner plans to eventually open up new Viper Rooms in “Miami, Portland, Seattle, New York, London and Tokyo.”
Since 1993, the Viper Room has hosted big names in the music world, such as Johnny Cash, Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers and Stone Temple Pilots. Despite competition on the Strip from larger clubs such as the Key Club and the House of Blues, the Viper Room, once owned in part by Johnny Depp, has managed to stay relevant by hosting well-attended local music showcases on Monday evenings. It also helps that the occasional big-name star drops in for an impromptu jam session, such as John Mayer did in 2004 with ZZ Top guitarist Billy Gibbons, or Queens of the Stone Age, who have played the club several times over the last few years.
– Charlie Amter
From the Daily Observer
(excerpt)Depp is busy, rich
February 12, 2008... Johnny Depp is one busy, busy man. He's receiving all kinds of awards for his performance as the Demon Barber of Fleet Street in "Sweeney Todd," and still raking in bucks at the box office for "Pirates of the Caribbean," plus which, offers for other roles are rolling in. He also is busy being a father to Lily Rose Melody and Jack Christopher, and mate to Vanessa Paradis. They have never legally said "I do." He recently bought a loft in a high-style downtown Los Angeles building, but never has had the time to move in. That, he hopes, will be his next project. Depp himself has been called a "weirdo" by some, but you can't knock success.
From Hollywood ScoopEva Dreams of Collaborating With Johnny Depp
February 12, 2008
Eva Longoria is desperate for an on-screen collaboration with Johnny Depp because she finds him so "beautiful." Um...ya you and everyone else!
When asked who Longoria would want an on-screen hookup with she replied, "Johnny Depp. But I'd probably be too nervous to talk to him because he's so beautiful..."
I bet he's on her freebie list too, watch out Tony!
Old News
Kazren found this on Amazon.com and was totally surpirsed.Chi Kung: The Healing Workout (1989) Starring: Johnny Depp, Peter DeLuise
Found by Emma at Street News Service
Sweeney Todd: An Interview with Johnny Depp
Miles FielderIn his new film, the probable Oscar contender adaptation of Stephen Sondheim’s award-winning Broadway musical Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, Johnny Depp plays the titular haircutter, throat slitter and serial killer. Directed by regular collaborator and best friend, the Hollywood Goth Tim Burton, it’s an intensely atmospheric and stomach-churningly gruesome horror movie that recreates Victorian London in black, white and plenty of scarlet. But beyond that, Sweeney Todd is also a tragic romance and a passionate tale of revenge.
“It’s the story of a man who becomes obsessed with avenging the horror of what happened to him,” says Depp, who’s in the big smoke on promotional duties, today dressed down in jeans and checked shirt, and evidently in a playful mood. “The idea of revenge is something most people don’t want to admit to. But I think we all have it, secretly somewhere in there. I’m a big fan of revenge. But I can’t give you an example,” the enviably good-looking 44-year-old says with a poker-face, “because I don’t want to implicate myself.”
Depp has defined his idiosyncratic acting career by playing an assortment of oddballs and bad boys, from John Water’s Cry Baby and Burton’s Edward Scissorhands to his stoned buccaneer in Pirates of the Caribbean (for which priceless comic turn he was nominated for an Oscar) and now the tormented mass-murderer of old London town. And having bucked the system Depp has, against the odds, became star and a sex symbol. His has been an uncommon success story.
“I suppose its just luck of the draw, really,” Depp says with a shrug. “I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to play all these different characters, whether they’re androgynous like [transvestite] Ed Wood, or incredibly macho like Captain Jack Sparrow. Sweeney’s a dark figure, but a hyper-sensitive one who has experienced something very traumatic in his life. I always saw him as a victim. I do believe that you have to bring some degree of truth from yourself to a role…”
Depp won’t get spec
