Johnny Depp gets a seven-minute standing ovation at Cannes Film Festival for his new movie

Johnny Depp's comeback to Hollywood has officially kicked off in a big way.

A year ago, the news headlines were dominated by Depp's defamation trial against his ex-wife Amber Heard.

However, now he's on top of the world after appearing at the Cannes Film Festival to promote his new film.

It was his first red carpet since winning his case against his former partner and he couldn't wipe the smile off his face.

People were reportedly screaming his name as he arrived at the event and one woman was even crying as she tried to get his attention.

However, if you thought that was good, wait until you see the reaction inside the Palais.

People leapt to their feet as Johnny and Jeanne Du Barry director Maïwenn walked in and gave the pair a 'rapturous' standing ovation.

Variety reports this applause went on for seven minutes and Depp was seen holding back tears.

Maïwenn was also emotional as she addressed the crowd.

She said: "I want to share this moment with my lover, with my producer, with Le Pacte.

"It was a production that was difficult to finance...and I want to share this moment with all my team across the theater.”

However, Depp's inclusion at the Cannes Film Festival has sparked backlash.

The negative response was so severe that festival director Thierry Fremaux felt compelled to respond ahead of the opening night.

He said: "I don’t know about the image of Johnny Depp in the US.

Abaca Press / Alamy Stock Photo.

“To tell you the truth, in my life, I only have one rule: It’s the freedom of thinking, and the freedom of speech and acting within a legal framework.

"If Johnny Depp had been banned from acting in a film, or the film was banned, we wouldn’t be here talking about it.”

He added: "This [controversy] came up once the film was announced at Cannes because everybody knew Johnny had made a film in France.

"I don’t know why she chose him but it’s a question you should ask Maiwenn.

"As for the rest, I’m the last person to be able to discuss all this.

"If there’s one person in this world who didn’t find the least interest in this very publicised trial, it’s me.

"I don’t know what it’s about. I also care about Johnny Depp as an actor.”

It's clear that loads of others also care about him and his return to the big screen now that his legal problems are behind him.