Johnny Depp Co-Producers Halt U.S. Release of Master and Margarita

Johnny Depp’s involvement as a producer in the upcoming English-language adaptation of Mikhail Bulgakov’s novel, The Master and Margarita, has stirred controversy within the film industry. The announcement was made during the Red Sea Film Festival. However, the news has significant implications for Russian-American director Michael Lockshin, whose own adaptation of the same novel is facing hurdles in securing a U.S. release.

Lockshin’s Legal Struggles

Lockshin is currently engaged in a legal dispute with Depp’s co-producers, Svetlana Migunova-Dali and Grace Loh. This legal battle is unfolding in the California Central District Court, where Lockshin alleges that they are attempting to prevent the U.S. release of his Russian-language adaptation, which was produced by Len Blavatnik.

Background on Lockshin’s Adaptation

Filmed in 2021, Lockshin’s version only premiered in Russia in January 2024, gaining notable box office success despite a political backlash. He described himself as a dissident in Russia, facing censorship due to the political themes embedded in his work. Despite positive reception, Lockshin’s U.S. distribution efforts have been stalled by cease-and-desist actions initiated by Migunova-Dali and Loh, who claim exclusive English-language adaptation rights.

Status of the Production Rights

Lockshin’s team asserts that the sales rights for the original Russian text, written between 1928 and 1940, are now in the public domain. This legal interpretation could potentially allow for his adaptation to be released in the United States. However, until his conflict with the co-producers is resolved, U.S. distributors remain hesitant to engage with his project.

Implications for the Industry

Lockshin expressed confusion regarding the intentions of Depp’s co-producers. He questioned why they would seek to block his film, given that a Russian-language adaptation could potentially generate interest for the English version. He stated, “I’ve always said I’m totally fine and happy for any English-language adaptation to be made.” Lockshin emphasized the importance of artistic expression, suggesting that Depp would likely oppose any attempts to stifle a film’s release if he were aware of the full context.

The Next Steps

• Lockshin has not yet reached out to Depp or his team, as the news of their association just emerged.
• He speculates that Depp may be unaware of the ongoing situation impacting his film.
• The legal representatives for Migunova-Dali and Loh had not provided comments at the time of the article’s writing.

As the situation continues to develop, Lockshin remains hopeful for a resolution that allows his adaptation to be seen by a wider audience in the United States.