Following their highly publicized defamation trial, Johnny Depp and Amber Heard are charting different courses. Sources close to Depp, now 60, reveal he considers the chapter closed and feels fortunate to continue his work. Heard, 37, is also focusing on her career, expressing both honor and pressure about reprising her role as Mera in "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom."

Heard acknowledged the inherent compromises in large franchise films versus independent projects. "Aquaman," co-starring Jason Momoa, Dolph Lundgren, and Willem Dafoe, is slated for release later this year. In contrast, Heard's indie film, "In the Fire," a period thriller, offered a different set of creative challenges.

Heard recently expressed gratitude for the warm reception of "In the Fire" at the Taormina Film Festival. This marked a significant return to public life since the conclusion of the trial with Depp.

The 2022 trial resulted in a $10.35 million judgment against Heard for defaming Depp. The jury also awarded Heard $2 million in her countersuit. The case was ultimately settled for $1 million, paid by Heard's insurance company. Heard's director, Conor Allyn, expressed confidence in her future, believing "In the Fire" will showcase her talent and pave the way for a successful comeback.

At the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, Depp addressed questions about feeling blacklisted by Hollywood. He denied feeling boycotted and expressed a decreased reliance on the industry.