Johnny Depp Honors Tim Burton

The Venice Film Festival is such a momentous occasion. And this year, Tim Burton was awarded a career Golden Lion award for his accomplishments in film.

Most appropriately, Johnny Depp, a frequent leading man in Burton’s films, was chosen to present the director with his award. He told press, "It's a very big honor to present Tim with this award. He is my favorite director and a very close friend."

Close friend indeed. Depp has starred in several of Burton’s films, including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Sleepy Hollow, Ed Wood, and Edward Scissorhands. He’s even the leading man in the new Burton flick, Sweeney Todd.

And Tim was thrilled to receive the honors in Venice. The 49-year-old director told press, "I am charmed by this award, which will serve as an inspiration for me forever." Tim is currently expecting a child with longtime girlfriend Helena Bonham Carter.

Gossip Girls

Enjoy the pictures of Johnny at the 2007 Venice Film Festival (September 5).