Johnny Depp’s Ebenezer Test Screenings Score Big Ahead of 2026 Release
- Johnny Depp’s upcoming starring vehicle Ebenezer scored exceptionally high during a recent test screening in New Jersey, according to reporting from Puck News.
- According to Puck News, the initial cut of Ebenezer far exceeded standard audience testing metrics.
- Produced on a modest production budget of $40 million, Ebenezer features a sprawling ensemble cast alongside Depp's lead performance.
Johnny Depp’s upcoming starring vehicle Ebenezer scored exceptionally high during a recent test screening in New Jersey, according to reporting from Puck News. The film, a gritty reimagining of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol directed by Ti West, earned an overall rating in the 80s, signifying that more than 80 percent of the test audience rated the picture as either excellent or very good. Paramount Pictures is positioning the project as a major career return for Depp. The studio launched a massive promotional push for the film at San Diego Comic-Con, where a pop-up experience recreated Scrooge’s office and Depp appeared in full character costume and makeup.
Test Screening Numbers And Audience Demographics
According to Puck News, the initial cut of Ebenezer far exceeded standard audience testing metrics. While a typical first-cut test screening averages a score around 72, West’s film pulled numbers well into the 80s. Depp’s individual performance metrics proved particularly strong during the New Jersey recruitment screening. The actor earned an 86 overall score for his portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge, driven largely by a 90 approval rating among women over the age of 35. For comparison, lead characters in standard first-cut screenings typically average a score of 67.
Production Details And Cast Roster
Produced on a modest production budget of $40 million, Ebenezer features a sprawling ensemble cast alongside Depp’s lead performance. Ian McKellen stars as Jacob Marley, while Andrea Riseborough appears as the Ghost of Christmas Past. Tramell Tillman takes on the role of the Ghost of Christmas Present, and Daisy Ridley rounds out the spectral trio as the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come.
The supporting lineup includes Rupert Grint as Bob Cratchit, Sam Claflin as Fred, Charlie Murphy and Ellie Bamber as the Fezziwigs, Nicholas Day as a Minister, and Arthur Conti as a young Ebenezer. The screenplay was penned by Nathaniel Halpern, with Emma Watts serving as producer.
Release Strategy And Industry Impact
Paramount has scheduled Ebenezer for a theatrical release on November 13, 2026.