Johnny Depp Movies List: A Complete Ranked Guide
John Christopher “Johnny” Depp II is a Hollywood icon, distinguished for his captivating portrayals and his capability to breathe life into even the most unconventional characters. His filmography spans a gamut of genres, ranging from the whimsical and eccentric to the dark and introspective, and is simply unparalleled in its diversity.
However, where does one even begin with a career as extensive and multifaceted as that of Johnny Depp? That is where this all-encompassing compendium of Johnny Depp’s cinematic oeuvre comes in. We have curated a list of the finest movies that feature Johnny Depp, delving into his acting style and the roles that have cemented his status as an unparalleled legend of the silver screen.
Whether you are a fervent admirer of Johnny Depp’s work or are discovering his artistry for the first time, this Johnny Depp movies list serves as your ultimate guide to the career of one of Hollywood’s most intriguing actors. Prepare to be transported into a realm of enthralling performances, idiosyncratic characters, and sheer, unbridled cinematic enchantment.
List of all the movies featuring Johnny Depp in chronological order
This is a comprehensive list of all the movies featuring Johnny Depp in chronological order, including his early works and most recent releases.
1980s:
- A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
- Private Resort (1985)
- Slow Burn (1986)
- Platoon (1986)
1990s:
- Cry-Baby (1990)
- Edward Scissorhands (1990)
- Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare (1991)
- Arizona Dream (1993)
- Benny & Joon (1993)
- What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (1993)
- Ed Wood (1994)
- Don Juan DeMarco (1995)
- Dead Man (1995)
- Nick of Time (1995)
- Donnie Brasco (1997)
- The Brave (1997)
- Cannes Man (1997)
- Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998)
- L.A. Without a Map (1998)
- The Ninth Gate (1999)
- The Astronaut’s Wife (1999)
- Sleepy Hollow (1999)
2000s:
- The Man Who Cried (2000)
- Before Night Falls (2000)
- Chocolat (2000)
- Blow (2001)
- From Hell (2001)
- Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)
- Once Upon a Time in Mexico (2003)
- Secret Window (2004)
- Happily Ever After (2004)
- Finding Neverland (2004)
- The Libertine (2004)
- Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)
- Corpse Bride (2005)
- Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (2006)
- Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
- Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End (2007)
2010s:
- The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009)
- Public Enemies (2009)
- Alice in Wonderland (2010)
- The Tourist (2010)
- Rango (2011)
- Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011)
- The Rum Diary (2011)
- Jack and Jill (2011)
- 21 Jump Street (2012)
- Dark Shadows (2012)
- The Lone Ranger (2013)
- Lucky Them (2013)
- Transcendence (2014)
- Tusk (2014)
- Into the Woods (2014)
- Mortdecai (2015)
- Black Mass (2015)
- Yoga Hosers (2016)
- Donald Trump’s The Art of the Deal: The Movie (2016)
- Alice Through the Looking Glass (2016)
- Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016)
- Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (2017)
- The Black Ghiandola (2017)
- Murder on the Orient Express (2017)
- Sherlock Gnomes (2018)
- London Fields (2018)
- Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (2018)
- The Professor (2019)
- Waiting for the Barbarians (2019)
- City of Lies (2019)
2020s:
- Minamata (2020)
- Johnny Puff Secret Mission (2023) (Upcoming)
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Top 10 highest-grossing films of Johnny Depp’s career
The extensive portfolio of Johnny Depp movies has achieved unparalleled box office success and has cemented his position as one of Hollywood’s most accomplished actors. This collection presents the top 10 highest-grossing films of his career, each of which has contributed to his immense popularity and the multi-billion-dollar revenue generated by his films.
“Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest” (2006) | $1.066 billion |
“Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” (2011) | $1.045 billion |
“Alice in Wonderland” (2010) | $1.025 billion |
“Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End” (2007) | $960 million |
“Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” (2003) | $654 million |
“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” (2005) | $474.9 million |
“Alice Through the Looking Glass” (2016) | $299.4 million |
“Dark Shadows” (2012) | $245.5 million |
“Public Enemies” (2009) | $214.1 million |
“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” (2007) | $153.3 million |
Top 10 High-Reted Johnny Depp Movies
Explore the cream of the crop from Johnny Depp’s vast filmography with our selection of his top 10 highest-ranked movies. This all-encompassing analysis uses both IMDb ratings and Rotten Tomatoes audience scores to ascertain which of Johnny Depp’s films have been the most warmly received by both movie-goers and film critics.
1. “Edward Scissorhands” (1990)
IMDB rating: 7.9/10
“Edward Scissorhands” is a 1990 American romantic fantasy film directed by Tim Burton, starring Johnny Depp as the titular character, and featuring Winona Ryder, Dianne Wiest, Anthony Michael Hall, and Alan Arkin in supporting roles.
The movie tells the story of Edward, an artificially created man with scissor blades for hands, who is taken in by a kind-hearted suburban family after being discovered living alone in a Gothic castle. Initially, Edward’s quirky but endearing personality and his unique talent for hedge trimming and hairdressing make him a hit in the neighborhood. However, things take a dark turn when Edward’s uncontrollable scissorhands accidentally injure someone, leading to a chain of events that ultimately forces him to flee back to his solitary existence.
The film explores themes of isolation, acceptance, and the dangers of conformity, as well as the beauty of imperfection and the power of love. The character of Edward is a poignant and relatable symbol of the outcast and misunderstood, and his story resonates with audiences of all ages.
The movie is visually stunning, with its distinct Gothic and surrealist aesthetics. The setting of the suburban town, in contrast with the dark castle and eerie music, creates a unique atmosphere that adds to the film’s emotional impact. The film’s score, composed by Danny Elfman, is hauntingly beautiful and adds to the movie’s dreamlike quality.
“Edward Scissorhands” was a critical and commercial success, cementing Burton and Depp’s working relationship and becoming a classic of the romantic fantasy genre. The film’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message of the power of individuality and the importance of embracing our differences.
2. “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape” (1993)
IMDB rating: 7.7/10
The story takes place in the fictional small town of Endora, Iowa, where Gilbert Grape (Johnny Depp) lives with his morbidly obese mother and mentally challenged younger brother Arnie (Leonardo DiCaprio). Gilbert works at a local grocery store and is stuck in a rut, feeling trapped in his responsibilities to his family and unable to leave town.
Things change when a free-spirited young woman named Becky (Juliette Lewis) comes to town and befriends Gilbert. As their relationship develops, Gilbert begins to re-evaluate his life and consider the possibility of leaving Endora. However, he is torn between his desire for a new life and his sense of obligation to his family.
Throughout the film, we see the challenges that come with caring for a family member with special needs, as well as the toll that the responsibilities of family can take on a person. Gilbert’s struggles are portrayed with both humor and pathos, and the film is a poignant exploration of the complexities of family and small-town life.
The performances in the film are outstanding, with Depp and DiCaprio both delivering nuanced and powerful performances. DiCaprio in particular shines in his portrayal of Arnie, capturing both his childlike innocence and his occasional outbursts of frustration and anger.
“What’s Eating Gilbert Grape” is a beautiful and heartfelt film that explores themes of love, family, and self-discovery. It is a moving and emotional journey that leaves a lasting impression on the viewer.
3. “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” (2003)
IMDB rating: 8.1/10
The film follows the adventure of Captain Jack Sparrow, a former pirate who is on a mission to recover his stolen ship, the Black Pearl, from his former first mate, Hector Barbossa. Elizabeth Swann, the daughter of the governor of Port Royal, is captured by Barbossa and his crew because they believe she possesses a medallion that can break a curse that they are under. The curse was placed on Barbossa and his crew by the Aztec gold they had plundered. The curse turns them into immortal undead beings, unable to feel or taste anything, and only able to return to their human form once every ten years.
Will Turner, who is in love with Elizabeth, teams up with Jack Sparrow to rescue her from Barbossa’s clutches. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and challenges, including sea battles, sword fights, and treacherous alliances. The film is filled with swashbuckling action, humor, and stunning visual effects that bring to life the fantasy world of pirates and their adventures on the high seas.
“Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” was a massive commercial success and received critical acclaim. It grossed over $654 million worldwide and was nominated for five Academy Awards, winning Best Visual Effects. The film’s success led to the creation of a highly successful film franchise, with four sequels and a fifth installment in development. The character of Captain Jack Sparrow, played by Johnny Depp, became an iconic pop culture figure and a fan favorite.
4. “Donnie Brasco” (1997)
IMDB rating: 7.7/10
In the movie, Johnny Depp plays the role of Pistone, who takes on the alias of “Donnie Brasco” and gains the trust of Lefty Ruggiero (played by Al Pacino), a low-level mobster. As Pistone gets deeper into the world of the mafia, he struggles to balance his loyalty to the FBI with his growing affection for Lefty and his desire to protect him.
The film portrays the harsh realities of life in the mafia and the psychological toll it takes on those involved. It also shows the difficulty of undercover work and the personal sacrifices that must be made in order to bring criminals to justice. The performances of Depp and Pacino are widely regarded as some of their best work, with Depp delivering a nuanced portrayal of a conflicted agent and Pacino bringing depth and humanity to a character who is usually portrayed as a one-dimensional villain.
“Donnie Brasco” received critical acclaim upon its release and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. It has since become a cult classic and is considered one of the best mafia movies of all time. The film’s themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of one’s actions continue to resonate with audiences today.
5. “Finding Neverland” (2004)
IMDB rating: 7.7/10
The film is set in London in 1903, and it follows Barrie (Depp) as he struggles with writer’s block and a lack of inspiration for his next play. One day, he meets Sylvia Llewelyn Davies (Winslet) and her four sons in Kensington Gardens, and he is immediately drawn to their sense of imagination and playfulness. Barrie soon becomes a regular visitor to the Llewelyn Davies household, and he develops a close bond with the boys, particularly Peter, who becomes the inspiration for the character of Peter Pan.
As Barrie spends more time with the family, he begins to see the world through the eyes of a child, and he becomes more and more inspired to write “Peter Pan.” However, the relationship between Barrie and the Llewelyn Davies family is not without its challenges. Sylvia is terminally ill, and her mother, Emma du Maurier (Julie Christie), disapproves of Barrie’s unconventional behavior and his influence on her grandchildren.
The movie is a beautifully crafted exploration of the creative process, the power of imagination, and the importance of family. The performances by the cast are exceptional, particularly Johnny Depp, who delivers a nuanced and sensitive portrayal of Barrie. The film’s visual style is also stunning, with breathtaking cinematography and imaginative set design that brings to life the world of “Peter Pan.”
Overall, “Finding Neverland” is a touching and poignant film that explores the complexities of human relationships, the transformative power of art, and the enduring legacy of one of the most beloved stories in children’s literature. It is a must-watch for fans of Johnny Depp, Kate Winslet, and anyone who loves a good story about the magic of childhood.
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6. “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” (2007)
IMDB rating: 7.3/10
In the film, Johnny Depp plays Sweeney Todd, a barber who was wrongly accused of a crime and exiled to Australia for 15 years. Upon his return to London, he seeks revenge on the corrupt judge who framed him and destroyed his family. With the help of his accomplice, Mrs. Lovett (played by Helena Bonham Carter), Todd sets up a barbershop above Mrs. Lovett’s meat pie shop and begins to lure his victims into his chair with the promise of a close shave. He then murders them and disposes of their bodies by sending them down a trapdoor into the basement, where Mrs. Lovett uses them as filling for her pies.
The film features dark and gruesome scenes of murder and cannibalism, as well as powerful musical numbers. The music and lyrics were written by Stephen Sondheim and adapted for the film by John Logan. Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter both display impressive singing abilities in their roles as Todd and Lovett.
The film was praised for its visual style, with Tim Burton’s signature gothic aesthetic and dark color palette creating a haunting and eerie atmosphere. The performances of the cast were also highly praised, particularly Depp and Bonham Carter, who had previously worked with Burton on several films.
“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” was a critical and commercial success, earning over $150 million at the box office and receiving several awards and nominations. It won the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, and Depp was nominated for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy. The film also won the Academy Award for Best Art Direction and was nominated for Best Actor, Best Costume Design, and Best Achievement in Makeup.
7. “Sleepy Hollow” (1990)
IMDB rating: 7.3/10
The story follows Ichabod Crane (played by Johnny Depp), a police constable from New York City, who is sent to investigate a series of gruesome murders in Sleepy Hollow. The victims all had their heads chopped off, and the locals believe that a vengeful ghost known as the Headless Horseman is responsible. Ichabod is a rational man who believes in science and reason, and he initially dismisses the idea of a supernatural killer. However, as he delves deeper into the case, he realizes that there might be some truth to the legend.
As Ichabod tries to solve the mystery, he encounters several eccentric characters, including the wealthy Van Tassel family, who seem to be hiding secrets, and Katrina Van Tassel (played by Christina Ricci), a beautiful young woman who captures Ichabod’s heart. Ichabod also forms an uneasy alliance with Baltus Van Tassel (played by Michael Gambon), the patriarch of the family, and his loyal servant, Young Masbath (played by Marc Pickering), who helps Ichabod in his investigations.
The film is known for its stunning visual style, which combines Gothic horror with a dark fairy tale atmosphere. Tim Burton’s signature style is on full display, with elaborate sets, striking costumes, and creepy special effects. The movie also features a haunting score by Danny Elfman, who has collaborated with Burton on many of his films.
“Sleepy Hollow” received critical acclaim upon its release and was a commercial success, grossing over $200 million worldwide. The film was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, and Best Costume Design. Johnny Depp’s performance was also widely praised, and he received a nomination for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama.
Overall, “Sleepy Hollow” is a visually stunning and atmospheric horror movie that combines classic storytelling with Tim Burton’s unique vision. With its blend of mystery, romance, and supernatural horror, it remains a beloved classic in the genre.
8. “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest” (2006)
IMDB rating: 7.3/10
The plot follows Captain Jack Sparrow, played by Depp, as he attempts to escape the clutches of the cursed Davy Jones, played by Nighy, and his crew of sea monsters known as the Flying Dutchman. Meanwhile, Will Turner, played by Bloom, and Elizabeth Swann, played by Knightley, must navigate their own obstacles as they try to save Jack and prevent the East India Trading Company from getting their hands on a powerful weapon called the “Dead Man’s Chest.”
The film was a massive commercial success, grossing over $1 billion at the box office worldwide. It received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised the action sequences, visual effects, and performances, particularly from Depp and Nighy. It also won the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects and was nominated for Best Art Direction and Best Sound Editing.
“Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest” is known for its swashbuckling adventure, humor, and memorable characters, as well as its iconic soundtrack composed by Hans Zimmer. It further established the popularity of the franchise and paved the way for the subsequent sequels.
9. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End” (2007)
IMDB rating: 7.1/10
The plot of the movie revolves around the efforts of Will Turner (Orlando Bloom), Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley), and Captain Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush) to rescue Jack Sparrow from the afterlife and to thwart the evil plans of Lord Cutler Beckett (Tom Hollander), who is determined to wipe out piracy from the Caribbean.
The movie features a complex plot involving numerous characters and subplots, as well as epic sea battles, mystical elements, and comedic moments. The visual effects are stunning, especially during the climactic battle between the pirate fleet and the East India Trading Company’s armada.
One of the highlights of the movie is the performance of Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow, who brings his trademark wit, charm, and eccentricity to the role. The movie also features strong performances from Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley, and Geoffrey Rush, as well as notable supporting performances from Bill Nighy as Davy Jones and Chow Yun-fat as the pirate Sao Feng.
Overall, “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End” is a thrilling and entertaining movie that successfully concludes the initial trilogy of the franchise while leaving the door open for future installments. It has grossed over $960 million worldwide and received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its ambition and spectacle, while others criticized its convoluted plot and excessive length.
10. “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” (2005)
IMDB rating: 6.7/10
The movie follows the story of Charlie Bucket, a poor boy who lives in a small house with his parents and four grandparents. Charlie’s family is barely making ends meet, and the one thing that brings joy to his life is his fascination with chocolate and the local chocolate factory owned by the mysterious Willy Wonka. One day, Wonka announces a contest where five lucky children will win a tour of his factory, and the opportunity to meet the elusive confectioner himself.
Through a series of unfortunate events, Charlie wins one of the coveted Golden Tickets and sets off on the tour with four other children, each with their own unique personality flaws. Throughout the tour, the children face bizarre and dangerous situations, but Charlie remains steadfast and true, showing kindness and compassion to all.
The film is notable for its colorful and whimsical visual style, which is characteristic of director Tim Burton’s style. The candy-filled factory is brought to life with stunning visual effects and set design, and the quirky characters are brought to life by a talented cast, including Johnny Depp, who delivers a memorable performance as the eccentric Willy Wonka.
The story also explores themes of greed, family, and the power of kindness, as Charlie proves that being a good person is more important than material possessions or wealth. The film’s climax features a twist ending that adds an unexpected layer to the story and reinforces the importance of these themes.
Overall, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is a delightful film that captures the magic and wonder of the beloved children’s book. It is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that will enchant viewers of all ages.
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Conclusion
Johnny Depp’s filmography is filled with a wide variety of characters and performances that have captivated audiences for decades. From his breakout role in “A Nightmare on Elm Street” to his iconic portrayal of Jack Sparrow in the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise, Depp has cemented his place in Hollywood history as one of the most versatile and talented actors of his generation. With this ranked guide to his complete movies list, fans can revisit their favorite performances and discover new ones they may have missed. Johnny Depp’s body of work is a testament to his creativity, skill, and dedication to his craft.