The Professor (2018), released internationally as 'Richard Says Goodbye,' presents Johnny Depp in one of his most grounded and poignant performances. Depp plays Richard Brown, a respected college literature professor who receives a terminal cancer diagnosis. Instead of pursuing aggressive treatment, Richard decides to radically transform his remaining time, shedding societal expectations and speaking brutal truths to everyone in his life—from his estranged wife and daughter to his colleagues and students.

Directed by Wayne Roberts, the film skillfully balances dark comedy with genuine emotional drama. The narrative explores themes of mortality, authenticity, and the search for meaning with a sharp, often witty script. Depp delivers a nuanced performance, capturing Richard's initial nihilism and his gradual, complex journey toward a form of liberation. The supporting cast, including Rosemarie DeWitt and Danny Huston, provide strong foils to Richard's chaotic new philosophy.

While categorized as a comedy-drama, the film's strength lies in its thoughtful and sometimes uncomfortable honesty. It avoids clichés about illness, opting instead for a character study of a man dismantling his own life on his own terms. For viewers, it's a compelling watch that prompts reflection on life's priorities. The Professor is worth watching online for its standout performance from Depp and its unflinching, bittersweet exploration of what it means to truly live when time is short.