Denis Villeneuve Eyes Robert Pattinson for Dune: Messiah Antagonist

The sands of Arrakis may soon have a new face to reckon with. Robert Pattinson, who has been praised recently for his work in The Batman and Mickey 17, is reportedly in discussions to join Dune: Messiah, the third and final entry in Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of Frank Herbert’s legendary sci-fi series. 

From Gotham to Arrakis

While nothing has been officially confirmed, sources told Variety that Pattinson is being eyed for the role of the film’s main antagonist. He will possibly play Scytale, a shape-shifting Face Dancer and major figure in Herbert’s second Dune novel.

If the casting moves forward, Pattinson would be a significant addition to what is already one of the most star-studded franchises in recent memory. The Dune films have featured a powerhouse ensemble, including Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, Austin Butler, and Josh Brolin. 

Villeneuve’s eye for casting and ability to attract top-tier talent has helped make Dune not just a critical success but a global box office force. The first film, released in 2021, grossed $410 million worldwide despite the pandemic-era streaming release. Dune: Part Two, which hit theaters in 2024, soared even higher with over $700 million in global receipts. Both movies are generally well-reviewed among critics, too.

Could Pattinson trade Gotham for Arrakis?

Villeneuve, whose long-term vision has always been a trilogy, initially planned to take a break before tackling Dune: Messiah. But the overwhelming response to Part Two seems to have accelerated that timeline. “I felt an appetite and a desire to see more,” the director said in a recent interview, explaining why the follow-up was fast-tracked. Production is now expected to begin this summer, with a release date penciled in for December 18, 2026.

Set 12 years after the events of Dune, Messiah picks up with Paul Atreides having claimed the imperial throne. As emperor, he navigates both political power and personal tragedy while balancing relationships with Princess Irulan and his beloved Chani. The story dives deeper into the consequences of Paul’s rise, exploring themes of faith and legacy. If Pattinson does sign on as Scytale, he’ll be stepping into a character layered with deception and menace. It could be an ideal fit for his growing list of complex roles, though we have not seen Pattinson in many “bad guy” roles.

Of course, the rumor mill around Pattinson’s involvement in Dune: Messiah has sparked reactions beyond the sci-fi community. Fans of The Batman franchise are anxious. The sequel to 2022’s The Batman has already seen multiple delays, with its latest tentative release date set for October 1, 2027. Pattinson’s growing workload, which also includes a reprisal of his collaboration with Christopher Nolan in an upcoming adaptation of The Odyssey, has stirred concern that the cape might stay in the closet a little longer.

Pattinson’s Busy Schedule Sparks Concern

Online reactions have ranged from disappointment to full-blown frustration. Social media users have voiced fears that Gotham might have to wait even longer for its next cinematic outing. Some have joked that The Batman Part II is practically canceled already, while others are simply hoping the actor can juggle both franchises.

Still, for Pattinson, the opportunity to join a massive property like Dune – especially under Villeneuve’s direction – would be hard to pass up. And for fans of the franchise, the addition of such a versatile performer could add another layer of intrigue to the already richly textured world of Arrakis.

Whether or not he ends up donning the disguise of a Face Dancer, the buzz around Pattinson’s potential casting reflects just how much momentum the Dune series has right now. With Messiah shaping up to be the final bow for Villeneuve’s take on the saga, expectations are sky-high. And if the past two entries are any indication, this last chapter is set to leave an impact as deep as a sandworm’s trail.