Robert Pattinson could be heading to the deserts of Arrakis. According to recent reports, the Batman star is in early talks to join Dune: Part Three.
Robert Pattinson is reportedly in talks to join Denis Villeneuve’s third and final Dune film and the role he’s up for could be one of his most fascinating yet.
Who Is Scytale — And Why He Could Be A Perfect Fit For Robert Pattinson
Pattinson is reportedly being eyed for the role of Scytale, a shapeshifting operative from the secretive group known as the Bene Tleilax. In Frank Herbert’s Dune Messiah, Scytale plays a key role in a plot to overthrow Paul Atreides. He’s manipulative, dangerous, and completely unpredictable, making him one of the standout characters in the sequel’s darker storyline. It’s the kind of role that demands subtlety, presence, and a certain strange magnetism. Something Robert Pattinson has consistently brought to his recent performances, from The Batman to The Lighthouse, to his most recent film, Mickey 17.
Where Dune Left Off And What Comes Next
Denis Villeneuve’s Dune saga has stood out as one of the few modern big sci-fi hits that balance blockbuster scale with artistic vision. Dune: Part Two delivered visually stunning battle sequences and emotional weight, backed by a talented cast including Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, and Rebecca Ferguson.
Part Three, based on Frank Herbert’s Dune Messiah, is expected to take a different turn, moving away from grand warfare toward a more introspective, politically charged narrative. It’s a story about the cost of power and the fragility of leadership.
Filming for 'DUNE: MESSIAH' is scheduled for this summer. The script is almost finished.(via @DEADLINE) pic.twitter.com/i8W340Wq3a
— Denis Villeneuve Universe (@DenisVfilms) April 8, 2025
Will Pattinson Say Yes?
As of now, nothing is official. But Robert Pattinson is definitely in demand. He’s currently filming Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, where he’s said to be playing the Greek god Hermes. That production is expected to continue into the second half of 2025, which could overlap with Dune 3, scheduled to begin filming July 2025.
Fan's Only Concern: Will This Affect The Batman Part II?
As it stands, there’s no real reason for concern. The Batman Part II is still aiming for a 2027 release, with production expected to start sometime in late 2025 or early 2026. Unless unexpected delays or scheduling conflicts arise, Robert Pattinson should be able to balance both projects. So it looks like Gotham’s protector isn’t going anywhere just yet.
Whether or not the casting becomes official, the idea of Robert Pattinson stepping into the Dune universe is exciting. Would you like to see Pattinson in Dune 3? Let us know in the comments.