Best Johnny Depp Movies of All Time

There are many great Johnny Depp movies, but which is the best?

That’s a tough question to answer, but we’re going to try. Here are our picks for the best Johnny Depp movies of all time.

1. Black Mass

Black Mass, directed by Scott Cooper and starring Johnny Depp, is a gripping crime thriller based on the true story of notorious gangster James “Whitey” Bulger. Depp gives a chilling performance as Bulger, a ruthless mob boss who terrorized Boston in the 1970s and ’80s. The film chronicles Bulger’s rise to power and his brutal reign of crime, which included drug dealing, racketeering, and murder.

Cooper expertly captures the dark and violent world of Bulger and the corrupt Boston police department that allowed him to operate with impunity. The film is a gripping portrait of government corruption and organized crime, and Depp is brilliant as the sociopathic Bulger.

In a recent article in Variety, Malina Saval said that “Boston stood in for Paris in Shawn Levy’s comedy “The Pink Panther” and Revere Beach (America’s first public beach) was transformed into Miami Beach for the 2015 Whitey Bulger biopic, “Black Mass.”

Black Mass is a must-see for fans of crime thrillers.

2. Platoon

Platoon is definitely one of the best movies of Johnny Depp’s career. It’s intense, gritty, and provides a great performance by Depp. The movie tells the story of a group of U.S. soldiers during the Vietnam War who are tasked with patrolling the jungle and protecting against enemy attacks. Although they’re constantly in danger, the men develop close bonds with one another and ultimately must rely on each other for survival. Platoon highlights the horrors of war and is definitely one of Depp’s most memorable roles.

3. Pirates Of The Caribbean: Curse Of The Black Pearl

There are many reasons why Pirates Of The Caribbean is one of the best movies by Johnny Depp. For one, Depp gives an amazing performance as the eccentric Jack Sparrow. His charm and wit are on full display, and he really brings the character to life. Additionally, the movie is visually stunning, with some truly breathtaking scenery. The action is also top-notch, and there’s never a dull moment. It’s simply a great all-around movie that’s hugely entertaining from beginning to end. Plus, it’s spawned a hugely successful franchise, so there’s that too. All in all, it’s easy to see why Pirates Of The Caribbean is considered one of Johnny Depp’s best movies.

After the allegations of his ex-wife Amber Heard, Depp confirmed that after the company tried to remove him from Pirates 6, “They didn’t remove my characters from the rides. They didn’t stop selling dolls of Captain Jack Sparrow. They didn’t stop selling anything. They just didn’t want there to be something trailing behind me that they’d find.” Later, he was asked “…if Disney came to you with $300 million (USD) and a million alpacas, nothing on this earth would get you to go back and work with Disney on a Pirates of the Caribbean film? Correct?” Depp responded, “That is true” confirming that he no longer wants to reprise his role as Jack Sparrow.

4. Edward Scissorhands

No matter what your thoughts are on Tim Burton films, you have to admit that Edward Scissorhands is one of Johnny Depp’s best movies. Depp stars as the titular character, a man with scissors for hands who is taken in by a kind-hearted woman (played by Winona Ryder). The film explores themes of isolation, acceptance, and love, and features some truly stunning visuals. It’s a moving and darkly humorous story that is sure to stay with you long after you’ve seen it. If you’re a fan of Johnny Depp or Tim Burton, or even if you’re just looking for a good movie to watch, be sure to check out Edward Scissorhands.

5. Ed Wood

Ed Wood is often cited as one of Johnny Depp’s best movies. The film tells the story of Edward D. Wood Jr., a cross-dressing, director during the 1950s who was known for making notoriously bad movies.

Depp gave an extraordinary performance as Wood, completely disappearing into the role. His portrayal captured both the bombastic and pitiful aspects of Wood’s character, making him sympathetic and lovable despite his flaws. The film itself is a delightful homage to B-movies, shot in black and white and filled with moments of deadpan humor.

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6. What’s Eating Gilbert Grape

What’s Eating Gilbert Grape is widely considered to be one of Johnny Depp’s best movies. It was his breakout role and earned him critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

The story follows the life of a young man named Gilbert Grape who is struggling to take care of his family. His mother is confined to a wheelchair and his father is an alcoholic. Gilbert must shoulder the responsibility of taking care of his brothers and sisters, as well as providing for them all. The film is praised for its strong emotional performances by the entire cast.

7. Donnie Brasco

Many people would say that Donnie Brasco is one of the best movies of Johnny Depp. I would tend to agree with this sentiment for a few different reasons.

One reason why I think this movie is so great is because of the amazing chemistry between Depp and his co-star, Al Pacino. The two have an incredible back-and-forth throughout the entire film, and it’s always a joy to watch.

Another reason I love Donnie Brasco is that it’s such a gritty and realistic portrayal of life in the mafia. It’s often said that truth is stranger than fiction, and that’s certainly the case here. You really get a sense of how brutal and violent these organizations are.

8. Finding Neverland

No matter what your age, chances are you’ve seen at least one of Johnny Depp’s movies. He’s been in some truly great films over the years, but if we had to narrow it down to just one, we’d have to say that Finding Neverland is one of the best.

Depp stars as J.M. Barrie in this 2004 movie, and he completely disappears into the role. It’s a heartbreaking yet ultimately uplifting story about a playwright who finds inspiration for his work in the relationships he forms with a group of young boys.

Depp gives an absolutely stunning performance, and it’s no wonder the film was nominated for multiple Academy Awards (including Best Actor for Depp).

9. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Johnny Depp is a master of playing quirky characters, and his performance as Willy Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is no exception. His portrayal of the eccentric candy maker is both funny and endearing, making the film one of Depp’s best performances to date. In addition, the movie is visually stunning, with its dazzling set designs and colorful visuals. Overall, it’s no wonder that Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is considered one of the best movies ever made.

10. Blow

Blow is definitely one of Johnny Depp’s best movies. Although it may not be as famous as some of his other movies, it definitely displays his range as an actor. In Blow, Depp portrays George Jung, a man who becomes involved in the cocaine trade in the 1970s. He gives an amazing performance and really brings the character to life. The movie is based on a true story, which makes it even more captivating. If you’re looking for a great Johnny Depp movie that isn’t as well-known, Blow is a great choice.

11. Corpse Bride

Johnny Depp is a master of choosing unique, dark, and often off-the-wall roles in his movies. And his portrayal of the character Victor Van Dort in Corpse Bride is no exception.

The storyline for Corpse Bride is whimsical, dark, and slightly creepy – all hallmarks of a great Johnny Depp movie. Add to that the amazing animation and artistry that went into creating the characters and setting for this movie, and it’s easy to see why it’s frequently cited as one of Johnny Depp’s best films.