A New Villain Emerges in Arrakis
Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures' Dune saga continues taking shape as director Denis Villeneuve prepares to return for the third installment. Alongside returning stars Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, reports suggest Robert Pattinson may join the stellar cast in a major antagonistic role. This potential casting comes fresh off Pattinson's acclaimed turn as The Batman, proving Warner Bros. values his franchise star power.
The Prime Suspect: Scytale
Industry insiders at THR indicate Pattinson is being eyed to play Scytale, the shapeshifting Face Dancer from Frank Herbert's Dune Messiah. As the primary antagonist of the second novel, Scytale masterminds a conspiracy against Emperor Paul Atreides alongside other powerful factions in the Dune universe.
This role would showcase Pattinson's versatility, allowing him to play against type as a calculating villain after several heroic franchise roles. The character's Tleilaxu origins and shape-shifting abilities offer rich dramatic potential while leaving the door open for future appearances in later installments.
Alternative Possibilities
Leto Atreides II
Some speculate Pattinson could play Paul's heir, Leto II, particularly if Villeneuve combines elements from Messiah and Children of Dune. Given Anya Taylor-Joy's expanded role as Paul's prescient sister Alia in Part Two, this adaptation liberty isn't without precedent.
Prince Farad'n Corrino
Should the films progress into Children of Dune territory, Pattinson could portray the complex Corrino heir - a sympathetic antagonist torn between duty and personal desires. This nuanced role would play well to Pattinson's strengths in portraying morally ambiguous characters.
A New Fremen Faction
The films' significant departures from the books, particularly Zendaya's Chani arc, suggest Villeneuve may introduce original characters. Pattinson could play a charismatic Fremen leader opposing Paul's rule, creating compelling new dynamics within the established universe.
Audience Poll
Which role do you envision for Pattinson?
