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- calendar_today November 15, 2026
Johnny Depp Returns to Top with 'Ebenezer'
Johnny Depp has achieved his first number one box office opening in eight years with the release of “Ebenezer”, a Paramount Pictures film inspired by Charles Dickens. The film topped the North American box office over the weekend, grossing approximately $19 million in ticket sales according to studio estimates.
A Comeback After Hollywood Setbacks
This marks a significant return for Depp, whose future in Hollywood was uncertain after a high-profile libel trial involving his ex-wife Amber Heard. Following this period and his exit from the “Fantastic Beasts” franchise six years ago, Depp had announced that he had “no further need for Hollywood.” Despite these challenges, “Ebenezer” was released in 3,535 theaters by Paramount Pictures and secured the top spot at the box office.
Box Office Performance and Production Details
While “Ebenezer” did not reach the blockbuster heights of Depp’s “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise or the $62 million opening of “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald” in 2018, its $19 million domestic debut is considered a solid start for a film with a production budget of $38 million. Internationally, the film opened in 63 markets, contributing $23 million to a total global debut of $42 million. Depp’s non-franchise films have previously opened in the $20 million range, similar to “Black Mass” and “Public Enemies.”
Audience Reaction and Demographics
The audience for “Ebenezer” skewed slightly female (52%) and largely over the age of 25 (81%), based on PostTrak exit polls. Word-of-mouth potential appears strong, with 65% of viewers stating they would definitely recommend the film to friends. Among children aged 12 and under, 47% said they would immediately tell friends to see it. The film is rated PG-13 and directed by Ti West, known for the “X” horror franchise. The cast includes Rupert Grint, Andrea Riseborough, Sam Claflin, and Daisy Ridley.
Critical Reception and Industry Response
“Ebenezer” received mixed reviews from critics and holds a score of 52% on Rotten Tomatoes. Despite this, 51% of moviegoers cited Depp as their reason for attending. Industry analysts are watching to see whether “Ebenezer” signals a long-term Hollywood comeback for Depp. Paul Dergarabedian of Rentrak commented that “the personal lives of stars generally don’t impact the box office. It really comes down to the movie,” suggesting long-term performance will be key.
Other Box Office Performances
Other new releases included Sony’s “Ghost Soldier” and Amazon MGM Studios’ “How to Rob a Bank,” which opened in sixth and seventh place respectively with just over $5 million each. “The Cat in the Hat” took second place in its second weekend, earning $11.4 million, followed by “Godzilla Minus Zero” with $8.3 million. “You Can See Everything,” a documentary about Elizabeth Holmes, rounded out the top five with close to $5.5 million in its second weekend.
Looking Forward
The overall weekend box office was slower compared to the previous week, with total North American ticket sales estimated at $86 million. The coming week is expected to see increased business with the highly anticipated release of “The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping.” Depp’s next film, “Day Drinker,” a revenge thriller from Lionsgate, is slated for release in March.
Source: toronto.citynews.ca.
