Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures are gearing up for the next installment of the Dune saga, with Denis Villeneuve set to direct Dune 3. The core cast, including Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, and Anya Taylor-Joy, are slated to return. Excitingly, it's been reported that Robert Pattinson is being considered for a significant role in this upcoming film. While it's unclear which character he will portray, there's speculation that he may take on a villainous role.
Scytale
If Dune 3 primarily adapts Dune Messiah, the most likely new character for Pattinson to play is Scytale. According to THR, this is the role they believe he's being eyed for. Scytale is a central antagonist in Dune Messiah, leading a conspiracy against Emperor Paul Atreides. His plan involves working with a Guild Navigator named Edric, who can shield their actions from Paul's prescient abilities due to spice consumption. Scytale, a shapeshifting Face Dancer and a member of the Bene Tleilax, offers a rich and complex role for Pattinson, who has predominantly played heroic characters in the past. This role not only provides a chance to explore a darker side but also allows for future appearances in the series.
Leto Atreides II
Another intriguing possibility is Pattinson playing Leto Atreides II, Paul's son. There are two Leto IIs in the Dune universe: the first, a minor character in the original novel, and the second, a pivotal figure across multiple sequels. The younger Leto II appears as an infant in Dune Messiah but becomes central in later books. Given the movies' tendency to deviate from the source material, Pattinson could appear as Leto II in spice-induced visions, similar to Anya Taylor-Joy's portrayal of Alia in Dune: Part Two. This role would secure Pattinson's presence in future Dune films, given Leto II's significant role in the saga.
Prince Farad'n Corrino
If Dune 3 combines elements from Dune Messiah and Children of Dune, Pattinson could be cast as Prince Farad'n. As the grandson of the deposed Emperor Shaddam IV, Farad'n seeks to reclaim the throne but is more interested in scholarly pursuits than power. This character could provide a nuanced villain for Pattinson, one who is not entirely antagonistic but driven by familial obligations.
A New Fremen Character
Considering the significant changes in Dune: Part Two, particularly with Chani's storyline, Dune 3 might introduce new characters. Pattinson could portray a new Fremen character aligned with Chani's faction, opposing Paul's rule. This role would position him as an antagonist from Paul's perspective, aligning with the series' themes about the dangers of charismatic leadership. A potential love triangle involving Paul, Chani, and Pattinson's character could add further complexity to the narrative.
As Dune 3 continues to take shape, fans eagerly await official announcements on casting and plot details. For more updates on the Dune franchise, stay tuned to our coverage.
Dune: Part 2 Character Posters
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