Dhaka, Nov. 11 -- Johnny Depp is making his return to a major Hollywood production with "Ebenezer", earning a reported $5 million for the role of Ebenezer Scrooge -- far less than his previous studio pay -- as cinema owners express cautious optimism about the film's prospects.

According to Variety, the new adaptation of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol", directed by Ti West, opens on Nov 13. It is tracking an estimated $20 million debut in North America and another $20 million internationally.

Paramount spent $38 million on production, with marketing costs estimated at around $50 million. Depp's deal also includes potential box-office bonuses.

The film marks Depp's first major role in nearly eight years following a career setback du...