Johnny Depp To Star In Wally Pfister's Sci-Fi Directorial Debut 'Transcendence'

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by Kevin Jagernauth
October 24, 2012 12:31 PM
10 Comments

Maybe this is why he dropped out of Wes Anderson's "Grand Budapest Hotel"? Whatever the reason, at the very least we heartily endorse Johnny Depp's next move, as he has landed a role in a film that will now be leap frogging its way up Most Anticipated lists.

Depp will star in the directorial debut of cinematographer and "The Avengers" hater Wally Pfister, now titled "Transcendence." Penned by Jack Paglen, details on the plot are being kept firmly under wraps, but Pfister did tease a bit about it recently. "It’s a present-day science fiction film, a fairly big concept. It’s bigger budget — not as big as 'Batman,' but not independent," he told the Sarasota Herald Tribune. And we'd have to reckon the premise must be pretty damn fascinating to lure the interest of Depp, who tends to align himself with seasoned and/or name directors.

No more information at the moment, but production will kick off in early 2013. His longtime collaborators Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas are executive producing the picture that will be produced by and financed by Alcon Entertainment. Warner Bros. will distribute. And we're guessing that Depp won't be the only big name coming on board....

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More: Johnny Depp, Wally Pfister, Transcendence

10 Comments

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SFlare | October 25, 2012 10:15 AMReply

He's absolutely right about the avengers. And the Christopher Nolan connection means I'm most def interested in this!
joe | October 25, 2012 5:17 AMReply

that would be great .
Sean | October 24, 2012 11:22 PMReply

Every1 is on this SciFi kick these days. I mean look at Cruise (who The Playlist I must say pointed out in several articles over the last couple weeks). I think possibly Sci Fi will be the new "it thing" for actors in the future. Which is very interesting. Clooney, Cruise, now Depp have left or will into this genre & that should be noted for sure..... But another thing. DEPP WORKING WITH CHRIS NOLAN OH MAN! #boner much lol
catttt | October 24, 2012 2:21 PMReply

Nice to see that scifi (other than star wars and transformers) films are being made. Let's hope that this makes big bucks, maybe we'll get some decent Philip K Dick -films too.
Sean | October 24, 2012 11:25 PM

@ Dan ..... I literally just said that as well (b4 having read your comment). I def see your point. I think a main part of it has to do with 1. We have the technology to do it now (Avatar really solidifed that). 2. Theres big $$$ in it (but they do cost a lot to make I believe too) 3. Stories/plots I think have a lot more flexiblity in regards to that genre as well. My thoughts.... WOULD LOVE TO HEAR THE AUTHORS THOUGHTS AS WELL :)
Dan | October 24, 2012 2:31 PM

Inception, District 9, The Prestige, Children of Men, Moon, Source Code, The Fountain, Looper, Prometheus, Wall-e, Avatar

Upcoming: Gravity, Eleayium, Oblvion

Honestly, given the quality of the filmakers and films, cinematically, I think this is the gold age of sci-fi on screen.
rodie | October 24, 2012 2:12 PMReply

I'm hoping Tom Hardy jumps aboard as well. That would be sweet.
Amy | October 24, 2012 1:31 PMReply

"And we're guessing that Depp won't be the only big name coming on board...."

According to Hollywood Reporter, Pfister is also looking at Noomi Rapace, James McAvoy, Christopher Waltz and Tobey Maguire.
Christian | October 24, 2012 1:10 PMReply

Nice! Finally an awesome Depp film on the way!
caro | October 24, 2012 12:35 PMReply

surprise!