Hollywood actor Johnny Depp is leading a high-profile masterclass at the Saudi Film Confex in Riyadh this week, marking another key collaboration between the star and the Kingdom’s burgeoning film sector. The session, titled “The Genius of Embodying Different Roles,” aims to explore the unique process behind creating his most iconic and globally impactful characters.
Depp’s participation underscores the growing international visibility of the Saudi film industry, which is a major component of the nation’s Vision 2030 strategy. The Confex, which runs from October 22-25, is organized by the Saudi Film Commission to drive investment, foster strategic partnerships, and attract world-class talent to the region.
The actor has cultivated a strong relationship with Saudi Arabia in recent years. The Red Sea Film Foundation, which operates out of the Kingdom, provided financing for Depp’s recent directorial effort, the biopic Modi, as well as post-production funds for his period drama Jeanne du Barry.
As one of the featured headliners, Depp is set to share career reflections and professional insights with a diverse audience of filmmakers, producers, and students. His masterclass on character work is anticipated to be a major draw for an event designed to transform the cinematic landscape in the Middle East.

