A number of people will be wondering why the name of this blog is ‘The Depp effect’ when it clearly isn’t a straightforward dribble-stained fan site. Well, I’ll tell you, if you promise not to laugh.
About four years ago, my dearly beloved husband was away from home and I was keeping a motherly eye on our second son, who was about nineteen at the time and ‘between jobs’. He didn’t need much looking after, but I tried to make sure that minimal amounts of the content of his room leaked out into the rest of the house, while at the same time trying to prevent too much of our crockery and cutlery disappearing INTO the Black Hole. Anyway, one day he said he fancied renting a movie and I let him choose.
He said he wanted to watch Pirates of the Caribbean, and my heart sank. I didn’t know much about the movie, but what I did know wasn’t encouraging: it was Disney (strike one) it involved pirates (strike two) and a ship with a skeleton crew (strike three). But Son No. 2 insisted that he’d seen it at the cinema and it was a great movie and it occurred to me that it would mean a welcome break from the constant battle against the Cartoon Network, video gaming and the dreaded drum kit, so I agreed and sent him up to the video store to fetch it.
Five minutes after Captain Jack hove into view my chin dropped to my chest and stayed there, and my eyes became mysteriously superglued to the screen.
There really is something about that character that hooks deep into the imagination of a very large cross-section of the population. People from five to seventy-five have had the same experience as me, in fact I’ve heard it said that you’d have to be dead to avoid it altogether, although I think, on balance, that’s probably an exaggeration.
Anyway, after reluctantly returning The Curse of the Black Pearl, I began to work my way through Johnny Depp’s back catalogue, discovering such gems as Chocolat, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, and Benny & Joon. I began to make a point of renting a movie for the weekend, when my Other Half would be home, so I could share with him my latest find. Luckily for me, he quickly came to appreciate Mr Depp’s phenomenal gifts – though not, it has to be said, in quite the same way that I did.
He began to look up Depp movies on IMDB, and requested Ed Wood. I found that I loved it. I picked up Don Juan de Marco, which he looked askance at, but we both loved that one too. For a long time I would not watch Once Upon a Time in Mexico because I’d heard what happens to Agent Sands, but .. well, I began to run out of movies and my friends assured me it was actually pretty funny, so I did watch it. Much to my surprised, yep, I laughed. I flatly refused to consider From Hell because I don’t ‘do’ slasher movies, but, well .. eventually I rented that one too, which caused raised eyebrows at Blockbuster Video, but guess what? It’s now my favourite Depp movie.
So, OK, this is a pretty run-of-the-mill story so far. One woman and (to a somewhat lesser degree) her husband become Johnny Depp fans. So what? And that still doesn’t explain the term ‘The Depp Effect’, does it?
I’ll try to put this as briefly as possible. At the time, I was a fat, middle aged woman with two grown sons and a multitude of health problems. My husband of more than 25 years was also going through a health crisis. I’d become tired, jaded and over-anxious, and reluctant to do anything very much.
Now, much as I had begun to love him, I did not want to know anything about Johnny Depp’s private life, his character or his personality, or his shoe size. I had learned from bitter experience that most idols have feet of clay and I tend to lose interest in people who prove themselves by word or deed to be bastards, and I was so enjoying being a fan of his that I wanted to keep right on being a fan. But you know how it is, when people discover that you have an interest (alright, call it an obsession if you must), they start to give you things. They mark it down for birthday and Christmas gifts and random stuff appears in the mail – and before you know it, despite your intentions, you begin to learn more about said ‘interest’ that you ever wanted.
What did I learn about Johnny Depp? Why, nothing at all to his discredit. He appears to be a Jolly Nice Chap. He seems to be not only hugely talented, but intelligent, witty, warm and funny, a true family man and just plain nice. And best of all, he is inspirational. His life’s motto seems to be, well … ‘Fuck it!’. As a role model for an insecure stuck-in-the-mud housewife, he couldn’t have been better.
And so, when I was invited to go and stay with a bunch of fellow fans I met on the internet and who happened to live in the US, instead of saying ‘Oh, that would be too risky and I’d have to fly across The Pond and I’m not sure my health would allow it and I might not like them and .. and .. and … ‘ I said ‘Fuck it – I will!’ and I had a GREAT time and made some new, real-life, honest to goodness friends. However, I still occasionally refer to my very best US friend as ‘the Axe Murderer’ in recognition that she could have turned out to be some great hairy homicidal maniac called Dave instead of the lovely lady that she is.
Since then, I’ve said ‘Fuck it – I’m tired of being fat and ugly, I’m gonna do something about it’ and ‘Fuck it – I’m gonna dye my hair’ and ‘Fuck it, I might be a tad late, but I’m gonna get my ears pierced’ and quite a lot of other ‘Fuck its’ and I’ve made friends, travelled a lot, and done many things I thought were for ‘other people’, including manning the barriers for eight hours on the hottest day of the year to take the picture above at the premiere for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and exchange a few words with the man himself.
My husband is delighted with the new me, too. However, I do worry about him. I think he may possibly be suffering from the teeniest smidgeon of jealousy.
I found this on the side of the fridge the other day -
And … oh no! Look! It’s Not Straight!!!
Do you think he’ll notice?
Andy’s section of the fridge is crooked. Oh yea…..and you forgot the bit about The Brave. Oh…..and if I may…..to the readers of this blog, dont let this charming woman fool you. She is a spitfire herself, and a lovely and delightful friend who discovered she still had a whole lotta livin to do. *wink*
I’ll second what the axe murderer (LOL) says. She’s a rather special woman and a great friend to have when it comes to planning the next ‘fuck it’ adventure.
Thanks, ladies!
So, what shall we do next, then?
Well I’m up for a trip to Ireland in May to see the Black Rebel Motorcycle Club gig. (if I can get tickets/cheap enough) Any takers?
Depends when in May – I’m going to LA, remember?
What a brilliant effect the Depp Effect has had. It is a funny old world the things that make us change direction. Viva La Depp Effect!
Indeed, Doris! Seems he’s had that effect on quite a number of ladies, too!
And long may it continue!
Andy!! LOL!!! (He’s so funny…)
How weird is this – I knew about JD before you did???? (Here I thought you’d been a lifelong fan! Forgot about the John Cusack thing…)
Stopping on the east coast on your way to LA??
No, I’m afraid it was Captain Jack, J – before that I was oblivious! And yes, before Johnny there was indeed John Cusack. I’m still very fond of him too! Similar kind of actor in his versatility and choice of roles, too!
Don’t think we’re stopping on the east coast this time, sadly … and I doubt I’ll do Dewey this year. Jack will be thirteen and a half by then.
You’re welcome to stay in the Depp Room again though! Any time.
LOL. Well, as long as you don’t find any voodoo dolls of Depp in the hubby’s underwear drawer, I suppose you’ll be ok. Kudos to you for taking charge of your life. Too many people don’t have the courage to do that. I have seen many of Depp’s films, but only very recently saw Ed Wood. As good as Depp was, I do have to say that Martin Landau stole it as Bela Lugosi. Once Upon A Time In Mexic is next on the list….
Mr. Nighttimes last blog post..Weapons of dental destruction.
Mr N – No, hubby is extremely tolerant and wouldn’t dare to – *ahem* I mean dream of doing such a thing!
Yes, Martin Landau was incredible in Ed Wood, wasn’t he?
Jay, I am so glad I tracked down your site! I’ve been meaning to take a good look around ever since you left your comments on my blog. Somehow, I was always in a rush, didn’t get much past the Blogger, About Me page and the Depp Effect home page.
Have you seen the interview of JD on “Inside the Actors Studio” with James Lipton? It was wonderful and showed him to be witty, warm and oh so charming!
ells last blog post..O is for
Hi Ell! Welcome!
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Yes, the Actor’s Studio interview is one of my favourites. I have it on DVD. AND I’ve seen the cut footage. He is completely adorable in this one! So, you’re a fan too?
Oh yes!
ells last blog post..My Nights
This is fuckin’ beautiful. Depp is great! He’s one of the few actors (there’s always just a few, and he’s one of ‘em for now) that you can count on. I mean, if he’s in a movie, it’s worth watching!
I just found your blog, from Dawn’s. I’ll be lookin’ further.
Go Depp Effect!!!
A. Deckers last blog post..Scrapbook Redux
Hi there, A Decker! Welcome! Yes, Go Depp Effect, indeed – I’m here in the US again having had a great time with those same axe murderers .. I mean friends … I mentioned in the post above, plus one more who has joined us since then. Maybe a tattoo is next.
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I can’t wait for Public Enemies to come out!
Johnny certainly leaves a mark on those who appreciate him! I came here via Belle at Diary of a Housewife, because she tagged you as well as me, and stumbled upon a fellow Depp fan. You might find one of my past posts amusing. Assuming that the HTML above appears properly… Otherwise I’ll look a bit silly.
Lolas last blog post..Monkey puzzle
Hi Lola! It’s always good to meet another Depp fan!! Welcome to my little corner of the internet!
The HTML turned out fine – and I love the picture! Perfect … except for the name. LOL!
I shall go check out the rest of your blog later – got to go out this morning.
I see there is some excellent combination of Depp and Douglas Adams happening.:)Will visit it more often:)
Scratch Bagss last blog post..You’ve Gotta Trust Somewhere
Hi Scratch Bags! Thanks! I’ve put you in my news reader, too!
My apologies, but I didn’t get the newsreader thing
Nevertheless, I have added you on my blog roll- ‘Scratch roll in my version’. Here you go 
http://scratchbags.wordpress.com/scratch-roll/
Scratch Bagss last blog post..You’ve Gotta Trust Somewhere
Scratch Bags – I use NetNewsWire as a news reader, not Blogger.
I use WordPress. I subscribed to Blogger so I could put my link into blogs which only allowed that form of comment reply, so it might not show up for you. But you’re in there! Honest!
Thanks for adding me to your blogroll!!
Oh I trust you. Hugs!
OMG… the next time you say “Fuck It”, call me and we shall have our own Depp party too. You know, I have been to Milwaukee four times in the last ten years (on business; I live in Canada). Of course, a few months back, he was there. Dammit, why couldn’t one of my business trips been then??? I would love to get his autograph one day….
I have an old blog I haven’t updated in a year, but I thought you may want to see:
http://pillage-and-plunder.blogspot.com/
Maureens last blog post..White Powder
Maureen – If you ever get the chance to try for an autograph, do it. He is the sweetest man to his fans! He signed my favourite press book for me and it’s now a treasured possession.
I’ll let you know when I’m in the US/Canada next! Whereabouts in Canada are you? I know people in Toronto and Saskatoon, as well as my brother in law who is in Vancouver.
I’ll go check out that blog!
Jay: I’m smack in the middle; not too far from Saskatoon, but next province over. Winnipeg, Manitoba (the home of the REAL Winnie the Pooh who was named after our fine city).
I have a question for you… I have an extra copy of a magazine on Mr. D. You see, I purchased it on the QT thinking hubby would think me daft. Instead, he bought the very same mag for me! (what a guy, eh?) Would you like it? LMK. It’s a bit cheezy, but the photos are nice (well, how could they NOT?)
Oh, and I just got back from driving daughter to work, so I popped by Hallmark and purchased this year’s Pirates ornament. Captain Sparrow himself; a talking one!
Ooh, Maureen, how sweet of you! Email me, would you? Can’t exchange addresses on the blog.
Your husband sounds as good as mine! ‘What a guy’ – yes, indeed!
Good on ya, you’re an inspiration yourself…
Thanks, Layne!
That was perfectly written, and made absolute sense! I do get a bit of a kick exclaiming to my teen daughter and her friends (when they ga ga over Depp) that he is actually *my* age and nowhere near appropriate for her to ogle. Rotfl.
I’m adding you to the fracroll!
fracass last blog post..What happens when we die?
Hi Fracas! – Thank you! Yes, indeed, these young things all going googly over him and saying things like ‘he’s pretty hot for an old guy’ – good grief!! What’s up with that? LOL!
Just popping over to take a look at your blog now! Always nice to find a fellow blogging Depp fan!
Oh my, if ever Johnny needed you, it’s now. Click my name and see why. You’ve simply got to help Johnny win this. I linked to you over at the poll page too… couldn’t help it.. I thought of you and your fabulous explanation on this page and it just seemed like something others should read too.
fracass last blog post..There’s a hunky hot dad who needs you now!
Fracas, that’s really sweet of you! I have voted, of course. And I’ve sent the link to that page to my Depp friends too, so hopefully he’ll run away with it!
I absolutely adore Johnny Depp, but not as much Hugh Laurie…
The Law of Staighness caught my attention. I happened to have that on my desk at my former workplace!
Dark Angels last blog post..The Day I Answered to Stupid
Hi, found your site from Daphne’s My dad’s a communist and couldn’t help but read this page to find out what the Depp effect is. I was quite suprised and amused.
You may find this post of mine from last year amusing regarding mr Depp and a film you may not yet have seen!
http://bigyellowtaxi.wordpress.com/2008/02/01/johnny-depp-did-drops-his-pants/
Mike Deakins last blog post..More UFO & Turbine Related Suff
WOOOOWWW!!!! This is great!!!!!!!!
Well done!
I also enjoy Johnny Depp and all his moovies! Once I made one of those internet personality tests to find which moovie character I was most identical to, and it turned out to be JACK SPARROW!!!! I was soooo happy!!!!
Nice meeting you!!!!
Sailor Girls last blog post..Letter to John le Carré
Jay, this piece speaks to my middle-aged heart! I do not have the obsesssion you do; however, I was lured into seeing Pirates of C #1 by my daughter who was sure I’d love it. I am laughing because I also had strikes against it before watching it for the very reasons you said, and it only took a couple of minutes into it for me to be mesmerized. My daughter noticed my glazed over eyes when we paused the video recorder for a potty break!
She and I made mom-daughter dates (she is a teenager) for #2 and #3. Oh, what fun!
I applaud your Fuck it attitude and identify with it, too because once we reach “a certain age” emphatically does not mean we cannot have Fun (notice that F word) with Freedom. I also made life changes and it has improved the quality of my life (and my families’ through rebound of me being happier) a whole lot! You go girl! and continue to!
(I used to dye my hair dark purple until they stopped making that color; that was a bit “out there” for me, because this was about 20 years ago when “moms” of young children, moms who were educated and “established” didn’t do such things. Well, I’m an artist and wasn’t in the theatre crowd then, but I loved the hair color! Now I do other things that keep me young, without being silly. Life is meant to be LIVED!
So glad to have met you and see my email about the USA. You have another invite…
Gel´s last blog ..Guts or Nuts?
Dear Jay, I found your blog after you posted on mine, and I’m pleased to be another fan of yours. You’ve made me laugh; now I am ready to try Johnny Depp’s movies. Your writing is entertaining…I think you have a gift!! Hope to see you now and then on either yours or my blog. Stay in touch!
Kate´s last blog ..YakTrax!
I agree, one would have to be practically dead not to notice Johnny Depp! He’s handsome, mysterious, sexy, intelligent, etc… I, too, could go on & on & on!
BUT YOU ACTUALLY GOT TO TALK TO HIM?! I wouldn’t have been able to – I would have opened my mouth & nothing would have came out. You’re so lucky! As the saying goes… YOU GO GIRL!!!
Tricia´s last blog ..Straw Birdhouse
I found you by following a link on the blog of someone who participates in the Thursday 13 meme…and am I ever glad I did! I <3 Mr. Depp in all his eccentric glory! Altho my blog also isn't a "straightforward dribble-stained fan site", it's also named for a character I'm particularly fond of
Also, you might be interested in a photo project I did…365 days of Captain Jack Sparrow: http://www.flickr.com/photos/fondofelves/sets/72157613244069896/
…fondofelves was my previous blog name…I was particularly fond of Legolas
Janet´s last blog ..blueberries!!!
Oh may! I’m a fan of Capten Jack Sparrow too! It started with my son wanting to see this piratefilm on DVD that he’d seen at his uncle’s, mt brother! So the three of us (my son, daughter and I) look at all three of Pirates of the Carribean! (I haven’t gotten farther than that, there are other movies with Mr. Depp, but I’m on a tight budget!)
Erik dressed like Capten Jack for Halloween, we don’t really even celebrate Halloween here in Sweden!
Best wishes,
Anna
Take a peek at “Mini-Capten Jack”:
http://annasadornments.blogspot.com/2009/10/saturdays-photohunt-theme-185-bags.html
or
http://annasadornments.blogspot.com/2010/03/i-heart-faces-week-9-hilarious-outtakes.html
Jay. I appreciate the honesty, well, my site is call Self Sagacity. Anyhow, JD is one of my and my SO’s favorite actor as well. I think he is VERY talented, portrait himself well in variety of roles. I didn’t see you mention Blow- but that is one bad ass movie. It’s a little on the wild side, and both my SO and I are so not that way, but it’s his acting that we thought was just incredible. Check it out if you haven’t already.
selfsagacity´s last blog ..Fifth Season Fashion Show – The Event
Good for you…we need out idols – I do not care what others say…he is great — I love him in Neverland…you go for it Girl and “F..” the rest…I have a few idols myself…blessings…bkm
Everyone – Thank you so much for coming and reading my story. I’m so glad to see it touched so many of you. There are plenty of us out there, it seems!
This post has been up so long that I seldom come in here to answer comments, but I do appreciate them all, and I do read them. Most of you will also get personal emails – and also visits back to your own blogs. Many of the bloggers who’ve posted here have found themselves in my newsreader too, which shows that we are indeed like-minded people!
Thanks so much, to all of you!
Hi Jay!!
I’m 17 and another JD fan too…
Loved every word that you had to say above there!!
Bravo to your Son #2 who introduced you to the JD Movies. Incidentally, I too did the same to my Mom and she’s another JD fan too. POTC was the movie that brought back JD after Edward Scissorhands that I’d seen when I was very little.
And it all started for this one post which I’d like to share with you here…
A Pirate Talks
Cheers!! And I will be stopping by sometimes for more on The Depp Effect!!
Brilliant! I’ve been a Depp fan since ever since I saw him in 21 Jump street…way back in ’87. Wow, that’s a long time ago, but he’s still the best after all this time. My all time favorite film of his is Don Juan de Marco, it always leaves me, well, just happy. And I moved to Spain just because of it…just kidding! I was already there when he made that one. But I think the Depp Effect could persuade me to run off to a tropical island. And I’ll definitely be returning here…after all, how could I possibly resist the Depp Effect!
Mother Theresa´s last blog ..The patron saint of lost socks