Depp to Play Bulger, Actor Lands Gangster Role
Johnny Depp has a lot to look forward to since he found yet another role in the upcoming thriller "Black Mass."
The "Pirates of the Carribbean" star is well known for playing a variety of unusual characters, and his latest gig is no different.
Depp has landed the "Black Mass" role of Whitey Bulger, an infamous gangster during the 1970s and '80s. The film will be an adaptation of the non-fiction book "Black Mass" by Dick Lehr and Gerard O'Neill, with "Rain Man" director Barry Levinson at the helm, reported The New York Times.
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"I could not be more thrilled to have the biggest star in the world and Academy Award-winning director Barry Levinson to finally bring this incredible story to the big screen," said producer Brian Oliver in a press release.
"'Black Mass' expertly details the twists and turns of this highly complex story, painting a vivid portrait of Boston's underbelly and its corrupt political machine, as well as exposing the worst scandal in FBI history," Oliver continued. "It's also an examination of loyalty to family, Irish heritage, and South Boston."
"Black Mass" will begin production in May, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
As one of Hollywood's most sought-after actors, Depp has also lined up the role of Alcon in the upcoming film "Transcendence."
The film will be the directorial debut for the cinematographer of "Inception," Wally Pfister.
"I'm thrilled and feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Johnny," Pfister said in a statement. "He is a creative and intelligent artist whom I feel will bring great depth to the character and the overall narrative."
According to reports, Depp will be making millions of dollars for the role in "Transcendence." The 49-year-old actor will walk away with $20 million in addition to receiving 15 percent of the film's gross.
As Alcon, Depp will portray a husband who becomes possessed by an evil, man-made computer.
Details surrounding the plot of "Transcendence" are being closely guarded, and some editorial changes in the script may still occur, according to Inquisitr.com.
Some believe that the theme of the plot is similar to "2001: A Space Odyssey" or "Inception."
