Johnny Depp is making his mark as a director once again, this time with the movie “Modi,” which recently began filming in Budapest. This project marks Depp’s second directorial venture, a remarkable 25 years after his directorial debut with “The Brave.”
After a tumultuous period in the public eye, Depp returned to acting, portraying Louis XV in Maïwenn’s “Jeanne Du Barry.” Now, he’s stepping behind the camera to helm “Modi,” a film centered around the life of the renowned Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani, portrayed by Riccardo Scamarcio.
Adding star power to the ensemble cast is Italian actress Luisa Ranieri, who takes on the role of Rosalie. She plays the owner of an Italian café in Paris and, more importantly, served as a source of support for Modigliani during his difficult times, offering care when he was destitute or inebriated.
The film boasts an impressive lineup of talent, including the iconic Al Pacino, Antonia Desplat, Stephen Graham, Bruno Gouery, Ryan McParland, Benjamin Lavernhe, and Sally Phillips.
Produced by Barry Navidi and IN.2, “Modi” unfolds in the backdrop of war-ravaged Paris during World War I, spanning a crucial 48 hours in Modigliani’s life that solidified his legacy as an artistic legend.
Italian cinematographer Nicola Pecorini is at the helm as the director of photography, with Dave Warren leading production design, Penny Rose overseeing costume design, and Sharon Howard-Field in charge of casting. After filming in Budapest, the production will shift to Italy, utilizing Budapest as an alternate setting for the film’s portrayal of Paris.
