Johnny Depp Wins Over Early Ebenezer Viewers, but Critics Are Split

Johnny Depp appears to have won over early viewers with his portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge, but not everyone is convinced that the film offers something new.

The first reactions to Ti West's Ebenezer praise Depp's lively performance and the film's dark gothic atmosphere, with some critics even calling it a strong return to Hollywood for the actor.

However, others argue that its take on Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol is too familiar, with little to distinguish it from previous adaptations. The film premiered in New York on 1 November 2026 and is scheduled to open in US and UK cinemas on 13 November.

With full reviews still to come, the early response questions whether Depp's performance and West's darker approach make this familiar Christmas story worth watching again.

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What are critics saying about Ebenezer?

The first reactions are largely positive, particularly towards Depp’s portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge. UK film critic Phil Roberts described the film as a “bold spin on Dickens’ classic”, praising Depp as “magnetic throughout Scrooge’s soft redemption arc”. He also said the finale delivered more emotional impact than previous versions.

Tom Chatalbash of FilmSpeak called it a “wickedly fun holiday treat” and a strong comeback vehicle for Depp. He praised the actor for balancing Scrooge’s strange, comic behaviour with the emotional weight of his journey. Chatalbash also highlighted West’s horror background, saying it gives the film an “immersive gothic look and feel”.

Critics Choice member Clarence Moye was similarly impressed, calling the film “a pleasant surprise” and praising its visual style for refreshing an otherwise familiar story.

Not everyone is convinced, however. Film critic Ren Vieira felt the film followed the familiar story without adding anything distinctive, despite praising its set, production and sound design. UK critic MaryAnn Johanson was more dismissive, describing it simply as “utterly superfluous”.

How does Ti West make A Christmas Carol darker?

West, known for horror films including X, Pearl and MaXXXine, approaches the 1843 Charles Dickens story with a stronger focus on its supernatural and frightening elements.

Rather than presenting Scrooge’s encounters with the three Christmas spirits as a straightforward family adventure, the film leans into the fear surrounding his journey through the past, present and future.

The trailers show Depp’s Scrooge being haunted by disturbing figures and facing the threat of being buried alive.

As Variety reported when Paramount released the second trailer, West appears interested in the darker parts of Dickens’ story, using his horror experience to give the familiar tale a different atmosphere.

Who else stars in Ebenezer?