SSC Film Studies

Film star qualities: Johnny Depp

Depp has always considered himself as an outsider, which is evident from the roles he takes on. His versatile acting has successfully created the star we view in the media today. The parts he takes on he adopts to extremely well, however, an awful lot of his own quirky charisma he put's into his roles is what make's him stand out. His representation of people feeling alienated by society make's him an inspiring role model

Although he is now considered as one of Hollywood's biggest star, Depp hasn't always experienced his extraordinary lifestyle. At the age of 15, Depp dropped out of school and spontaneously joined a garage band called 'new kids'. However, when settled down with his wife, Depp felt he must provide for himself and his wife and took a job up as a ball-point pen salesman. This helps society as a whole feel like they can relate to Depp, as many have experienced tough money situations and had to provide for those they love. Being able to relate to stars strengthens bonds and increasing the stars fans.

A nightmare on Elm Street was Depps first hit, appealing to teenagers especially globally. It wasn't until Depp performed in 21 Jump Street that he was labelled a 'heart throb'. Girls all around the world would be influencing more and more people to watch and learn about this mysterious actor.
Chosen by Empire magazine as one of the "100 Sexiest Stars in Film History", is just one example of why word about Johnny Depp was spreading. Everyone was going crazy about his 'dark intense eyes' and 'highly defined cheek bones'.

"Voted Empire's (UK) Sexiest Male Movie Star of All Time."

Frequently collaborating with director Tim Burton, was exactly the right move. Depp portrayed rather strange characters, bringing something new to the screen every time. His character Edward Scissor hands lured in a mix of audience, sympathising greatly for the character. The audience being aware of Depp's personal life of being bullied for standing out make's the audience feel a deep connection with Depp in real life, as well as the screen. 

Helping out many children charities, such as 'Sophie's angles' only make's the media rant on about him even more. More over, Depp visited a sick child in hospital dressed up as character Jack sparrow. After receiving a letter from concerned parents about there seventeen year old daughter who was in a coma, Depp was touched. Acknowledging that the girl was a big fan of him, he recorded a voice tape of himself, in the hope that if it was played every day she'd awake. During interviews, he tends to talk about his children a lot, saying  how he acts as his film characters when reading them stories, therefore, we can also perceive him as a caring father figure. 

Although Depp devotes his care to children hospices and thinks of his children before anything, there is definitely a more deviant side to this man. In January 1999, Depp was arrested after having a fight outside of a restaurant in London. As situations like this maybe out of the norms of society, it makes his character more fascinating to common citizens. he may be a bit of a diva but Depp is classed as a role model to many who have felt excluded. One girl thanked Depp for making her glasses 'cool'.