Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures are developing the next installment in the Dune saga. Denis Villeneuve returns to direct Dune 3, with returning cast members Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, and Anya Taylor-Joy. New reports indicate Robert Pattinson is in negotiations for a significant part in Dune: Part Three, potentially expanding his involvement in major Warner Bros. franchises beyond The Batman.
Potential Villainous Turn
While specifics remain unconfirmed, industry sources suggest Pattinson may portray an antagonist. Considering where Dune: Part Two concluded and Frank Herbert's original novels, we can speculate about likely candidates for Pattinson's role.
Scytale
If Dune 3 primarily adapts Dune Messiah (the immediate sequel novel), Scytale emerges as the probable choice. This shapeshifting Face Dancer from the Bene Tleilax faction masterminds the conspiracy against Emperor Paul Atreides. As the central antagonist of Messiah, Scytale manipulates events alongside Reverend Mother Gaius Helen Mohiam and Guild Navigator Edric, exploiting their ability to circumvent Paul's prescient visions.
The role would allow Pattinson to explore morally ambiguous territory, contrasting with his typically heroic franchise roles. Scytale's nature as a Face Dancer also creates narrative flexibility for potential returns in future installments.
Leto Atreides II
Considering Pattinson's resemblance to Chalamet, another possibility exists within the Atreides bloodline. Paul's son Leto II becomes instrumental in later novels, though his Messiah appearance shows him only as an infant. However, Villeneuve's adaptation might follow Dune: Part Two's precedent of showing future family members through spice visions (as with Anya Taylor-Joy's Alia cameo).
This casting would establish Pattinson for potential long-term involvement, especially if future films adapt Children of Dune and God Emperor of Dune, where Leto II assumes central importance as the transformative God-Emperor.
Prince Farad'n Corrino
Should Dune 3 incorporate elements from Children of Dune, Prince Farad'n becomes another viable option. As Shaddam IV's grandson, this reluctant heir to the Corrino dynasty presents a complex antagonist - more scholar than warrior, yet trained in Sardaukar warfare. His nuanced characterization could provide Pattinson rich material while maintaining audience sympathy.
Potential Original Character
Villeneuve's adaptations have already demonstrated creative liberties, particularly in Chani's expanded role. The director might introduce an original Fremen antagonist opposing Paul's rule, possibly aligned with Chani's dissenting faction. This could position Pattinson as a rival both politically and romantically, creating dramatic tension regarding Chani's eventual reunification with Paul.
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