Hollywood star Johnny Depp described working with Michelle Pfeiffer and Eva Green as “a dream come true” at the premiere of his new movie.

The 48-year-old, who plays vampire Barnabas Collins in Tim Burton’s Dark Shadows, had only compliments for his leading ladies at the film’s European premiere in London’s Leicester Square.

“Every day was a real treat, getting into the ring with Michelle and Eva. Working with them was a dream come true,” said Mr Depp.

Hundreds of fans − some arriving from Australia, Argentina and Italy − waited for hours to catch a glimpse of Mr Depp.

Former Bond girl Ms Green, Ms Pfeiffer, Helena Bonham Carter, Bella Heathcote, Chloe Grace Moretz and Mr Burton joined Mr Depp on the purple carpet.

Ms Green, who looked elegant in a navy velvet gown by Tom Ford, returned the praise, saying: “Johnny is a chameleon actor: He is very intense, very brave and he takes risks.”

Australian actress Ms Heathcote wowed in a black lace Pucci dress with towering Jimmy Choo heels while Bonham Carter kept her kooky style in a Vivienne Westwood number.

Mr Burton revealed the idea for the big-screen adaptation of the 1960s cult TV series came from Mr Depp.

“This was the project he wanted. This was one of the rare times where he, as a child, wanted to play the part,” he said.