Robert Pattinson is reportedly in early talks to join the cast of Dune: Part Three as Scytale, a shapeshifting antagonist who plots to overthrow Timothée Chalamet’s Paul Atreides. The third film, directed by Denis Villeneuve, will adapt Frank Herbert’s Dune: Messiah and is set to begin filming this summer for a December 2026 release.
Pattinson Eyed as Shapeshifting Villain Scytale
Multiple sources confirm Robert Pattinson is being considered for the role of Scytale, a key antagonist in Dune: Messiah. Scytale is a Face Dancer—a member of the genetically advanced Bene Tleilax—who uses his ability to mimic others to infiltrate Paul’s empire and orchestrate a conspiracy against him. While no official offer has been made, industry reports suggest Villeneuve is keen to cast Pattinson due to his experience playing morally complex characters (The Lighthouse, Good Time) and his rising star power.
Key context: In Herbert’s novels, Scytale works with groups like the Bene Gesserit and the Spacing Guild to destabilize Paul’s rule. His schemes include using clones and political manipulation, making him a multifaceted threat.
Scytale’s Role in Dune: Messiah Explained
Dune: Messiah picks up 12 years after Paul becomes emperor, exploring the consequences of his holy war. Scytale’s plot involves creating a clone of Paul’s deceased ally Duncan Idaho (played by Jason Momoa, who confirmed his return for Part Three) and manipulating Paul’s prescient visions. Pattinson’s potential casting hints that Villeneuve will stay faithful to the book’s darker themes, such as the cost of power and betrayal.
Fun fact: Scytale was previously portrayed by Martin McDougall in the 2003 Children of Dune miniseries, which also featured James McAvoy as Paul’s son Leto II.
Production Timeline and Returning Cast
Dune: Part Three is expected to start filming in mid-2025, with a release date set for December 18, 2026. Alongside Chalamet, returning cast members include Zendaya as Chani, Florence Pugh as Princess Irulan, and Anya Taylor-Joy as Paul’s sister Alia. Jason Momoa’s Duncan Idaho will return through the Tleilaxu’s cloning technology, a major plot point from Messiah.
Jason Momoa’s comment: “Yeah, I’m going to be coming back. If you didn’t read the books, it’s not my fault, right?”
Pattinson’s Packed Schedule and Potential Conflicts
Pattinson’s involvement hinges on scheduling. He is set to film The Batman – Part II in late 2025 and is currently working on Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey alongside Zendaya. While Dune 3’s production timeline overlaps with these projects, insiders suggest Villeneuve is willing to adjust filming dates to accommodate Pattinson.
Villeneuve’s Vision for the Trilogy’s Conclusion
Villeneuve has called Dune: Messiah the “epic final chapter” of his trilogy, emphasizing that it will feel distinct from the first two films. He plans to explore Paul’s downfall and the unintended consequences of his messianic rise. The director has also hinted that Messiah could set up future adaptations of Herbert’s later books, though he intends to hand the franchise to another filmmaker after this installment.
Villeneuve’s statement: “If I do a third one, it’s to do something that feels different and has its own identity.”
Fan and Industry Reactions
Fans have praised the potential casting, noting Pattinson’s ability to portray enigmatic characters. Social media buzz includes memes about a “Batman vs. Paul Atreides” showdown, though most agree Scytale’s manipulative nature suits Pattinson’s strengths. Industry analysts also highlight the strategic value of adding another A-lister to Dune’s already star-packed ensemble.
