Johnny Depp credits Al Pacino with his return to directing for 'Modi' film: See photos

Johnny Depp has made a return to directing for the independent film "Modi," his first notable re-emergence to the film world in the last few years.

The film, starring Riccardo Scamarcio as the Italian-born painter and sculptor Amedeo Modigliani, with Antonia Desplat and Al Pacino, marks a continued return to the spotlight for Depp following his closely watched and debated trial with ex-wife Amber Heard.

In a statement to USA TODAY, Depp, 60, credits Pacino, 83, for encouraging him to direct his first film since 1997's "The Brave." The film is currently in post-production.

"Embarking on this cinematic journey as the director of MODI has been an incredibly fulfilling and transformative experience," Depp says. "I would like to express my profound gratitude to the entire cast, crew, and producers for their unwavering commitment and creativity."

He continues: "To Al, who requested that I make this film—how could I refuse Pacino? A sincere acknowledgement (sic) for generously contributing his talent and dedication to this project. MODI is a testament to the collaborative spirit of independent filmmaking, and I am excited to present this unique and compelling story to the world."

Pacino and Depp previously worked together on the 1997 crime drama "Donnie Brasco."

USA TODAY has reached out to Pacino's rep for comment.

Shot largely in Budapest, the film follows the life of Modigliani, as he "navigates a turbulent and eventful 48 hours that will become a turning point in his life, solidifying his reputation as an artistic legend," according to the film's synopsis on IMDb.

The film also stars Stephen Graham, Bruno Gouery, Ryan McParland, Luisa Ranieri and Sally Phillips and is produced by Depp's European production company, IN.2, alongside producer Barry Navidi.

Depp has been relatively low profile since winning the 2022 defamation lawsuit he filed accusing Heard of defaming the "Pirates of the Caribbean" star in a 2018 op-ed, with a Virginia jury awarding him more than $10 million in damages and vindicating his stance that Heard fabricated claims that she was abused by Depp before and during their brief marriage.

Heard also partially won her countersuit over comments made by Depp's former lawyer Adam Waldman when he called her abuse allegations a hoax. The jury awarded her $2 million in damages.

The former couple reached a settlement later that year. Heard paid Depp $1 million, which he pledged to charities.

Depp has since been spotted with his band Hollywood Vampires, at Rihanna's Savage X Fenty fashion show in 2022 and at the Cannes Film Festival last year, which opened with "Jeanne du Barry" starring Depp and French actress Maïwenn and reportedly received a seven-minute standing ovation.

Contributing: Staff and wire reports

'Depp v. Heard':Answers to your burning questions after watching Netflix's new doc