Pakistan, April 10 -- Veteran actor Ian McKellen has heaped praise on Johnny Depp, revealing he formed a strong bond with the star while working on their upcoming film.

The two actors are set to appear together in a new retelling of A Christmas Carol, where Depp takes on the iconic role of Ebenezer Scrooge. The project marks one of Depp's most high-profile roles in recent years following his widely publicised legal battle with ex-wife Amber Heard.

Speaking about his experience on set, McKellen did not hold back his admiration as he said, "He's effervescent, funny, irreverent, serious - all at the same time. It was a bit of a love fest, really. I fell in love with him. He's very obliging to his fellow actors. [There was] a wonderful feel...