Reuters news agency reports “Johnny Depp swooped into Venice on Saturday on a wave of Oscar optimism for his portrayal of Peter Pan’s creator J.M. Barrie in the fantastical new film FINDING NEVERLAND.” Johnny arrived by water taxi, accompanied by his FINDING NEVERLAND director Marc Forster and co-star Kate Winslet. Reuters notes that FINDING NEVERLAND got a very warm reception from the critics in its preview screening here, where even the crusty press corps dissolved in tears at the film’s conclusion: “Critics are already touting Depp, who boasts a flawless Scottish accent as Barrie, for an Oscar nomination,” writes Reuters reporter Shasta Darlington, adding that Johnny modestly refused to speculate about his Oscar chances: “I don’t know anything about it.”

Darlington says that Johnny “shows a gentle and impish side” in his portrayal of PETER PAN creator J. M. Barrie. “But the 41-year-old actor assures fans that in real life he is not the boy who refuses to grow up,” she writes. Johnny told the Venice press: “The notion is beautiful … but it’s also fun growing old.” Thanks to DeepinDepp for sharing the Reuters story; you can read the full account here . Check the many wire photos on the Zone’s News & Views board and Recent Pics board for stunning visual evidence that Johnny looks as amazingly young and beautiful as ever. A special Zone thank-you to Savvy, who posted many great shots on the Recent Pics board! Also watch for reports from Zoner Angie on the News Board–Angie is in Venice for the festival and saw Johnny’s arrival!