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Robert Pattinson could be the next big star in the galaxy of stars of Dune. Insiders on the production say that the director, Denis Villeneuve, is keen on the Batman star for the role of Scytale, a major villain of Dune: Messiah, the book on which the next film will be based. No offer has been extended, but from both parties, the interest is reported to be keen.
If cast, Pattinson would play Scytale, a shape-shifting Face Dancer and agent of the Bene Tleilax, a clandestine organization known for genetic manipulation and political intrigue. Scytale is involved in the plot to overthrow Paul Atreides, played by Timothée Chalamet, who will be reprising his role in the third installment. The star has never before been in a big Hollywood film, so this is a unique opportunity for Pattinson to go out of type in his work recently.
Dune 3, which Villeneuve has confirmed will be his last entry in the franchise, is expected to start shooting in summer 2025—a year earlier than its earlier rumored schedule. That push comes in the wake of the overwhelming success of Dune: Part Two, which took more than $700 million worldwide and was praised by critics for performances, visual storytelling, and staying true to Frank Herbert’s classic.
Villeneuve has stated that Dune: Messiah is a correct continuation of the narrative of Paul Atreides. The film is set 12 years after the events of Part Two and explores themes of power, destiny, and resistance to hero cult—hence a more introspective, political, and tragic installment.
Pattinson has background working on high-end productions. He recently wrapped A24’s The Drama starring Zendaya, is filming Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, and has been scheduled for Die, My Love starring Jennifer Lawrence. It would only be adding fuel to already stacked cast with Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, Austin Butler, and Anya Taylor-Joy.
Casting rumors for Legendary Entertainment remain unconfirmed, but fans are eagerly awaiting the possibility of Pattinson’s involvement. If he does join, he would bring star power and versatility to a character that has the potential to be one of the franchise’s most layered villains.
Fans of the series as well as science fiction enthusiasts alike are eagerly following developments as Dune 3 proceeds towards production, and the potential addition of Pattinson to the cast only feeds speculation.
