Johnny Depp is stepping back into Hollywood’s mainstream with a powerful new role in Day Drinker, his first major studio film since the defamation trial with ex-wife Amber Heard. With a fresh look and an intriguing character, Depp is ready to headline a movie that’s already got people talking.
In the first official image from the film, Depp appears nearly unrecognisable. Dressed in a deep navy suit, his long silver hair pulled back and a salt-and-pepper beard framing his face, he cuts a sharp yet mysterious figure. Holding a glass in one hand, he looks worlds away from the roles fans might remember, but that’s exactly what’s catching everyone's attention.
Day Drinker, directed by Marc Webb, known for 500 Days of Summer and The Amazing Spider-Man, brings together an ensemble cast including Penélope Cruz, Madelyn Cline, Manu Ríos, Arón Piper, Juan Diego Botto, and Anika Boyle. Set on a private yacht, the story follows a bartender played by Cline, who meets a quiet, enigmatic guest played by Depp. Their encounter soon spirals into something far more complex, with Cruz playing a dangerous figure that ties everything together.
Fans online have been quick to share their excitement. Many were stunned by Depp’s look, comparing it to his portrayal of Grindelwald in Fantastic Beasts, while others joked that he resembled a rugged version of Chris Hemsworth. One comment summed up the buzz: “Did not expect this! He looks incredible. Can’t wait.”
A new chapter for Johnny Depp: his gripping role in Day Drinker is generating serious buzzGetty Images
This project marks Depp’s fourth collaboration with Cruz, following their work in Blow, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, and Murder on the Orient Express. With the film currently in production in Spain, the team behind it isn’t holding back, with Thunder Road of John Wick fame producing, and Lionsgate on board to distribute.
For Depp, Day Drinker feels like a signal that he’s stepping back into Hollywood with something new to offer. He may have been away from the studio spotlight for a while, but with this return, he’s truly reminding everyone that he’s far from done with that look.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.