He’s making movies for a smaller studio, the almost-indie Saban Films.

And he’s cutting his hair and playing a real role here, a college prof who discovers he’s dying of cancer and lives his life accordingly.

There’s a hint of tipsy in this turn as “The Professor,” which is Depp’s sweet-spot. If people aren’t totally over Johnny D., this May 17 release — sure to be lost in Blockbuster Season — could be one worth tracking down.