Johnny Depp’s ‘Ebenezer’ Test Screening Scores Impress: High Ratings Indicate a Comeback
Johnny Depp’s relationship with Hollywood has been a focal point of interest for years. Following a highly publicized legal battle and his departure from a major franchise, the actor spent considerable time working on smaller, predominantly international projects, while studios remained cautious.
This context makes ‘Ebenezer‘ a fascinating test case. Paramount’s gothic adaptation of Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ is being promoted as Depp’s return, with him portraying Ebenezer Scrooge. This film marks his first significant studio lead role since 2018. Directed by Ti West, known for ‘X’, ‘Pearl’, and ‘MaXXXine’, the film infuses a horror sensibility into the classic ghost story, with a script penned by Nathaniel Halpern.
Now, the initial audience feedback on this comeback is in, and it’s noteworthy. According to Puck News, Paramount conducted a test screening on August 11 in Paramus, New Jersey, where Depp received an impressive score of 86 for his performance, significantly above the typical lead norm of 67. The film itself garnered a score of 80, compared to a historical norm of 72, with women over 35 rating Depp at an outstanding 90.
Depp’s performance outshining the film itself has sparked considerable conversation within the industry. Reports indicate that only the top 10% of films achieve scores of 93 or higher, making an 80 solid, but an 86 for a lead performance exceptional for any actor. Matthew Belloni from Puck confirmed these figures with three sources, although neither Paramount nor Depp’s representative provided comments.
Studio executives Josh Greenstein and Dana Goldberg reportedly attended the screening and left the theater feeling optimistic. With a budget of around $40 million, the film represents a relatively modest investment for a studio.
Interestingly, the most favorable responses came from women over 35, a demographic that might not have been expected to react positively given Depp’s controversial past. The 90 score from this group is a significant indicator for a Christmas film targeting a broad audience, suggesting that Depp’s appeal as an actor may have resonated more than the surrounding controversies.
Paramount has embraced the narrative of a comeback. At San Diego Comic-Con, Depp appeared in full Scrooge costume and makeup, and the first trailer introduced him as the “Master of Misfits,” referencing his past roles before concluding with the line, “It’s good to be back.” The tagline promises “The name you know. The story you don’t.”
The supporting cast is impressive as well, featuring Ian McKellen as Jacob Marley, Andrea Riseborough as the Ghost of Christmas Past, Tramell Tillman as the Ghost of Christmas Present, Rupert Grint as Bob Cratchit, and Sam Claflin as Fred. Fan reactions to the trailer have been mixed, with some eager to see Depp return and others questioning the film’s marketing approach.
Bringing Ebenezer Scrooge to life, in a way only Johnny Depp can. #EbenezerMovie – only in theatres November 13. https://t.co/iDWJ1AWz1R
— Ebenezer (@ebenezermovie) October 21, 2026
It’s essential to keep these scores in perspective. A test screening reflects the opinions of a small group, and Puck itself noted the limited sample size. While strong numbers indicate early audience enthusiasm, they do not guarantee box office success or critical acclaim.
Nonetheless, this report arrives at a pivotal time for Depp. Lionsgate has scheduled his action thriller ‘Day Drinker’ for March, and Puck reports that Disney is in discussions to bring him back as Jack Sparrow in a new ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ film, though there’s no confirmation regarding ‘Ebenezer’. Industry observers view this film as a litmus test for whether audiences are ready to embrace a Depp revival.
‘Ebenezer’ is set to hit theaters on November 13, and the real test will begin with ticket sales. If audience reactions remain positive, Paramount may discover that Depp’s appeal was merely dormant rather than extinguished.
For now, the early scores provide the studio with a reason for optimism and offer Depp a rare piece of good news from an industry that has kept its distance for years.
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