Exhumed: Johnny Depp in "A Nightmare on Elm Street" (1984)

by Joseph Perry and Mike Imboden

In their “The Good, the Bad, and the Verdict” film reviews, Joseph and Mike normally give their thoughts on a slice of cinema. However, “Exhumed” will focus on the first (or very early) credits of established actors, giving their roles the GBV treatment. For this installment, it’s Johnny Depp in A Nightmare on Elm Street.

Intro

It’s a testament to Johnny Depp’s undeniable star power that we're even discussing his role in A Nightmare on Elm Street. Let's be honest, the film would have been just as terrifying if they’d cast a particularly expressive mannequin in his place. Glen Lantz, Depp’s character, is about as deep as a kiddie pool – and that’s being generous.

The Details

Depp, in all his pre-megastar glory, brings a level of dramatic intensity to the role that is nothing short of mind-blowing. His portrayal of a teenage boy grappling with the existential dread of being consumed by his bed is truly Oscar-worthy. We’re talking method acting at its finest here. It’s a shame the Academy doesn’t have a category for "Most Convincingly Terrified Individual Getting Eaten by a Bed."

Glen is the quintessential ‘80s teen heartthrob: brooding, misunderstood, and with hair that could rival a poodle. Depp manages to capture this essence with a subtlety that is almost painful to watch. His ability to convey a lifetime of emotional turmoil through a single, vacant stare is truly a gift.

Of course, let’s not forget the iconic death scene. It’s a tour de force of acting, a masterclass in how to be convincingly devoured by your mattress. One can only imagine the rigorous training regimen required to perfect such a performance.

The Verdict

While A Nightmare on Elm Street may be remembered for Freddy Krueger’s menace, let us not overlook the truly stellar performance of Johnny Depp. It’s a career-defining role, a testament to his range as an actor, and a shining example of how to give a truly unforgettable performance, even when your character is basically a plot device.

Johnny Depp’s portrayal of Glen is a cinematic treasure that deserves to be studied and appreciated. It’s a performance that transcends the horror genre, a beacon of hope for struggling actors everywhere. So next time you watch A Nightmare on Elm Street, pay close attention to the guy getting eaten by the bed. You might just discover a hidden gem of acting talent.

A Nightmare on Elm Street