Lily-Rose Depp Opens Up About How Her Father’s Movie Left Her ‘Traumatised’ as a Child
Lily-Rose Depp Reveals How Johnny Depp’s Movie Left Her ‘Traumatised’
Lily-Rose Depp, daughter of renowned actor Johnny Depp, recently opened up about a childhood experience that left her deeply affected. Despite growing up in the limelight and now carving her own path in the film industry, Lily-Rose had a surprising and emotional reaction to one of her father’s most iconic films, Edward Scissorhands.
At 25 years old, Lily-Rose has already built an impressive acting career with roles in critically acclaimed films such as The Dancer, The King, and the much-discussed HBO series The Idol. Her latest endeavor is starring in Robert Eggers’ upcoming adaptation of the 1922 horror classic Nosferatu. However, her journey to embracing gothic cinema wasn’t straightforward, especially after a childhood experience with one of her father’s beloved roles left her feeling “traumatised.”
A Childhood Fear: The Emotional Impact of Edward Scissorhands
In a candid interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Lily-Rose shared that watching her father in Edward Scissorhands as a child was a distressing experience. The film, released in 1990 and directed by Tim Burton, features Johnny Depp as Edward, a gentle character with scissors for hands. While the film was celebrated for its unique storytelling and Depp’s heartfelt performance, it struck a different chord with a young Lily-Rose.
Holden's hanging on to the rumour. (Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images for Mercury Studios)
“I was traumatised by it,” she admitted. “Not because I thought he was scary, but because everyone was being so mean to him, and I got really upset.”
For many viewers, Edward Scissorhands is a whimsical, yet melancholic tale of acceptance and misunderstanding. However, for Lily-Rose, the townspeople’s cruel treatment of Edward and the film’s somber ending, where Edward fakes his death to escape persecution, left a lasting impression.
“I remember being petrified by that,” she recounted, reflecting on how the film’s narrative of rejection and isolation impacted her emotionally as a child.
Johnny Depp’s Role in Shaping Lily-Rose’s Career
Johnny Depp’s eclectic and often dark roles have undeniably influenced his daughter’s perception of film and storytelling. Beyond Edward Scissorhands, Depp’s roles in movies like Sleepy Hollow, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, and Pirates of the Caribbean have showcased his penchant for complex, gothic characters.
Lily-Rose has often spoken about how growing up around her father’s diverse roles helped shape her interests. “It was always fascinating to watch my dad transform into these different characters. It’s like he lived in a different world every time he took on a new role,” she shared in an earlier interview.
Her transition into acting, particularly in gothic cinema, seems a natural extension of her childhood experiences.
Public Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Lily-Rose Depp’s revelation about her reaction to Edward Scissorhands has sparked widespread discussion among fans and film enthusiasts. Social media platforms have been buzzing with reactions:
- @CinemaLovers: “Who knew Edward Scissorhands could be so impactful? Lily-Rose Depp’s story really highlights how deeply films can affect us. #LilyRoseDepp #EdwardScissorhands”
- @GothicFilmFans: “Lily-Rose Depp going from being scared of gothic films to starring in Nosferatu is the ultimate character arc! Can’t wait to see her performance. #Nosferatu #GothicCinema”
- @FilmCritiqueCentral: “It’s fascinating to hear about Lily-Rose Depp’s childhood trauma with Edward Scissorhands. Her journey into gothic roles shows her incredible growth as an actress. #LilyRoseDepp”
These comments reflect the public’s interest in Lily-Rose’s personal journey and her transformation from a child affected by her father’s work to a rising star in the same genre.
Holden’s Role in the Depp Legacy
Another significant aspect of Johnny Depp’s influence is his son, Jack Depp, who has largely stayed out of the limelight but has expressed a keen interest in art and music. Jack’s quieter approach contrasts with Lily-Rose’s public acting career but shows the diverse talents within the Depp family.
Holden, a childhood friend of Lily-Rose and Jack, often reminisces about the unique environment they grew up in. “Johnny’s house was like a movie set. We’d watch him practice lines or get into character. It was surreal but also very normal for them,” Holden shared in a podcast.
Holden’s stories shed light on the everyday aspects of growing up with a globally recognized father who constantly transformed into different characters. “There was one time Johnny was preparing for a role, and he stayed in character for days. It was both hilarious and a bit eerie,” Holden added, reflecting on how those experiences shaped their view of creativity and performance.
She's been married to her horsey since 2008. (GC Images)
Embracing Complexity in Roles: A Dive into the Darker Underbelly
Lily-Rose Depp’s fascination with complex, darker roles reflects a significant shift in her acting trajectory. The allure of gothic cinema lies in its exploration of human emotions, moral ambiguity, and the supernatural, which allows actors to delve deeply into character development. Lily-Rose articulated this sentiment, stating, “I’m interested in the darker underbelly of things. As an actor, you hope that your role will be as meaty as can be, so you have as much to dive into as possible.”
In her role as Ellen Hutter in Nosferatu, Lily-Rose showcases her ability to embody a character entrenched in fear, fascination, and resilience. The character’s torment at the hands of Count Orlok is a psychological journey that demands a nuanced performance, something Lily-Rose delivers with remarkable depth. Critics have lauded her portrayal, noting how she effectively channels the terror and strength needed to survive such an ordeal.
Her ability to navigate these complex emotions speaks to her evolution as an actress, one unafraid to confront challenging narratives. This bold choice in roles demonstrates her willingness to explore stories that are not only entertaining but also thought-provoking, highlighting the human condition’s intricacies.
A Promising Future in Gothic Cinema: Carving Out a Unique Path
As Lily-Rose Depp continues to build her repertoire in gothic cinema, her trajectory suggests a promising future. Her role in Nosferatu is just the beginning of what many anticipate to be a career marked by bold and daring performances. Embracing the gothic genre allows her to explore a wide range of human experiences, from fear and despair to hope and redemption.
Her transformation from a young girl traumatized by the townspeople’s cruelty in Edward Scissorhands to a leading actress in a celebrated gothic horror film illustrates her growth both personally and professionally. It signifies a readiness to embrace the darker narratives she once feared, now finding empowerment in bringing such stories to life.
Looking ahead, Lily-Rose is poised to take on even more challenging roles that push the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The gothic genre, with its rich history and endless possibilities for character exploration, provides a fertile ground for her to continue evolving as an actress. Her dedication to portraying multifaceted characters ensures that audiences will eagerly anticipate her future projects.
In embracing the complexities of gothic cinema, Lily-Rose Depp not only honors her father’s legacy but also establishes her distinct voice in the industry. Her journey from childhood fears to cinematic triumph is a testament to her resilience and passion for storytelling, marking her as a formidable talent in contemporary cinema.
Nosferatu is currently in theaters, offering audiences a chance to witness Lily-Rose Depp’s compelling performance and her remarkable journey into the heart of gothic cinema.
Featured Image Credit: Insta/@noholdenback/Daniele Venturelli/Getty Images for The Red Sea International Film Festival
