Published: October 13, 2009

'special' Actor Johnny Depp

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Johnny Depp only plays "special" characters.

The Hollywood actor has revealed he takes great care when deciding which films he wants to appear in and will only accepted a movie role if he finds it fascinating.

He said: "The person I represent must be somehow special. I was totally fascinated of John Dillinger in 'Public Enemies' for example. And Captain Jack Sparrow was revolutionary - a bank robber but at the same time national hero. At that time banks were hated - like today. I see him as a sort of Robin Hood."

The 46-year-old star - who stepped up to replace the late Heath Ledger when he died tragically during filming of 'The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus' - says he was so impressed with the film's director Terry Gilliam, he jumped at the chance to help him out.

'Special' actor Johnny Depp

He explained to Germany's Joy magazine: "Since I've worked with Terry - the director of 'Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas' - I'm a big fan of him. When Terry asked me to help, I was immediately on the spot."

Meanwhile, Johnny said he is "lucky" to have made it as an actor.

He said: "My success came on its own. However, I was very lucky. For example, directors like Tim Burton fought for me when Paramount didn't want to give me the lead role in 'Sleepy Hollow'.

"When I made the breakthrough I was regarded as the new James Dean. But the biggest compliment I ever received was the comparison with Marlon Brando. He is my idol - and was my best friend."