Ebenezer (2026): Johnny Depp Becomes Scrooge in First Trailer for Ti West’s Dark Christmas Fantasy

Paramount Pictures has released the official trailer for Ebenezer, offering the first look at Johnny Depp as Ebenezer Scrooge in a bold new adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol. Directed by Ti West, the upcoming fantasy drama reimagines one of literature’s most enduring holiday stories with a darker, more atmospheric approach.

Joining Depp is an all-star cast that includes Ian McKellen, Rupert Grint, Daisy Ridley, Sam Claflin, Andrea Riseborough, and Tramell Tillman.

Ebenezer arrives exclusively in theaters on November 13, 2026.

Johnny Depp Leads the First Trailer for Ebenezer

The first trailer introduces a colder, more haunting version of Victorian London as Johnny Depp steps into the role of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge.

Rather than presenting a traditional holiday adventure, the footage emphasizes psychological horror, gothic visuals, and emotional redemption. The familiar visits from the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Jacob Marley remain central to the story, but Ti West’s direction gives the classic tale a darker cinematic tone.

Without revealing major plot twists, the trailer hints at a visually striking adaptation that blends supernatural fantasy with Dickens’ timeless message about compassion, regret, and second chances.

What Is Ebenezer About?

Based on Charles Dickens’ 1843 novella A Christmas Carol, Ebenezer follows the wealthy but deeply bitter Ebenezer Scrooge, whose lonely life is transformed after he is visited by a series of supernatural spirits on Christmas Eve.

As Scrooge confronts memories of his past, the realities of his present, and the consequences of his future, he is forced to question the choices that shaped his life and whether redemption is still possible.

While the core story remains faithful to Dickens’ beloved classic, this adaptation promises a darker atmosphere under director Ti West.

Ebenezer Cast

The film features an acclaimed ensemble cast.

Main Cast

• Johnny Depp as Ebenezer Scrooge
• Arthur Conti as Young Ebenezer
• Rupert Grint as Bob Cratchit
• Ian McKellen as Jacob Marley
• Andrea Riseborough as the Ghost of Christmas Past
• Tramell Tillman as the Ghost of Christmas Present
• Daisy Ridley as Emily Cratchit
• Sam Claflin as Fred
• Ellie Bamber as Isabel Fezziwig
• Charlie Murphy
• Henry Lloyd-Hughes

Ti West Reimagines a Holiday Classic

Known for atmospheric horror films such as X, Pearl, and MaXXXine, Ti West directs Ebenezer from a screenplay by Nathaniel Halpern.

Rather than reinventing Dickens’ story completely, the film appears to embrace the emotional heart of A Christmas Carol while presenting it through a darker visual style that reflects West’s filmmaking sensibilities.

The project is produced by Emma Watts and distributed by Paramount Pictures.

When Does Ebenezer Release?

Ebenezer opens exclusively in theaters on November 13, 2026.

Its mid-November release positions the film as one of the holiday season’s major theatrical offerings, arriving just weeks before Thanksgiving and the Christmas movie season.

Why Ebenezer Is One of the Year’s Most Anticipated Holiday Films

Several factors have already made Ebenezer one of the most talked-about holiday releases of 2026.

Johnny Depp’s portrayal of Scrooge offers a fresh interpretation of one of literature’s most iconic characters, while Ti West brings a distinctive visual style rarely associated with traditional Christmas stories.

The supporting cast, including Ian McKellen, Daisy Ridley, Rupert Grint, and Sam Claflin, further strengthens expectations for a dramatic adaptation that balances fantasy, emotion, and suspense.

For audiences looking for a darker take on A Christmas Carol, Ebenezer could become one of this year’s standout theatrical releases.

The official trailer suggests that Ebenezer is more than another adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic.

With Johnny Depp leading an accomplished cast, Ti West offering a fresh creative vision, and Paramount Pictures backing the production, the film is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing holiday releases of 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Ebenezer release?

Ebenezer opens in theaters on November 13, 2026.

Who plays Ebenezer Scrooge?

Johnny Depp stars as Ebenezer Scrooge.

Is Ebenezer based on A Christmas Carol?

Yes. The film is based on Charles Dickens’ 1843 novella A Christmas Carol.

Who directed Ebenezer?

The film is directed by Ti West from a screenplay by Nathaniel Halpern.

Who stars in Ebenezer?

The cast includes Johnny Depp, Ian McKellen, Rupert Grint, Daisy Ridley, Sam Claflin, Andrea Riseborough, Tramell Tillman, and Ellie Bamber.