The production will begin in France in spring next year.
Johnny Depp is set to direct his first feature film titled Modi in 25 years, about the Italian-born painter and sculptor Amadeo Modigliani.
He will co-produce alongside Al Pacino and Barry Navidi.
Based on the play Modigliani by Dennis McIntyre and adapted for the screen by Jerzy and Mary Kromolowski, Modi will tell the story of the artist’s time in Paris in 1916.
It will offer a snapshot of a “turbulent and eventful” 48 hours during which, having long considered himself a critical and commercial failure, he solidifies himself as a creative force.
Amedeo Modigliani was an Italian painter who found fame largely posthumously. His style was not well received during his lifetime and he considered himself a failure both critically and commercially. It was only after his death in 1920 that his creations became much sought after across Europe.
He died of tubercular meningitis in 1920 aged 35 in Paris.
In a statement, Depp said: “The saga of Mr Modigliani’s life is one that I’m incredibly honoured, and truly humbled, to bring to the screen. It was a life of great hardship, but eventual triumph – a universally human story all viewers can identify with.”
Navidi added: “This project has been very close to Al’s heart. This is a slice of Modi’s life and not a bio. It’s been a dream of mine to work with Johnny again – he’s a true artist with an amazing vision to bring this great story to the screen.”
Johnny produces the film for IN.2, the European arm of his production company Infinitum Nihil.
Johnny has only directed one film in his entire career–the 1997 release The Brave, which starred him alongside Marlon Brando.
