Ian McKellen, Johnny Depp, and Tramell Tillman are set to lead the cast of the upcoming film Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol, directed by Ti West. Scheduled for release on November 13, 2026, this adaptation of Charles Dickens’s classic novella will revisit the timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s supernatural journey, highlighting the Ian McKellen Ebenezer Christmas Carol collaboration.
Details of the New Adaptation and Cast Roles
Based on Dickens’s 1843 story, A Christmas Carol tells of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who encounters spirits that prompt him to reflect on his past, present, and future actions. This latest film, described as
“a thrilling ghost story set in Dickens’ London, following one man’s supernatural journey to face his past, present and future and fight for a second chance,”
promises a fresh take on the well-known tale.
Alongside Johnny Depp, Ian McKellen and Tramell Tillman will play vital roles, with Andrea Riseborough also joining the cast. Tillman is confirmed to portray the Ghost of Christmas Present, while McKellen’s character remains undisclosed. The film’s production team includes executive producers Stephen Deuters, Jason Forman, Adam Bohling, and David Reid.
Background on Key Actors and Their Recent Work
Tramell Tillman recently received acclaim and an Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his work in Apple’s series Severance. He is currently filming Spider-Man: Brand New Day with Tom Holland. Tillman’s recent projects include the Amazon MGM Studios film Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother and Lena Dunham’s Netflix movie Good Sex. Earlier in the year, he appeared alongside Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning.
Ian McKellen is widely recognized for his iconic performances as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies and as Magneto in the X-Men films. His acclaimed career includes an Oscar nomination for Gods and Monsters, and roles in movies such as The Da Vinci Code, Mr. Holmes, and The Good Liar.
Position of This Film in the Context of Other Adaptations
This new adaptation is the second Christmas Carol film announced in 2024, following Robert Eggers’s version starring Willem Dafoe as Ebenezer Scrooge. Ti West, known for his work on films like X, MaXXXine, and Pearl, is bringing a distinctive style to this classic ghost story.
The release of Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol anticipates renewed interest in Dickens’s work, with audiences eager to see how this modern retelling captures the spirit of London’s foggy streets and timeless themes. The film also marks a notable collaboration between McKellen and Depp, combining their vast experience and star power for a fresh interpretation of a beloved story.
