Robert Pattinson Thinks Zendaya Had ‘Something to Do with’ Him Being Cast in “Dune: Part Three”

In an exciting development for fans of the Dune franchise, the highly anticipated Dune: Part Three is set to hit UK cinemas on December 18, 2024. The film’s cast, including newcomer Robert Pattinson, gathered in Los Angeles on March 16 to unveil the trailer, generating buzz for the continuation of Denis Villeneuve’s epic adaptation of Frank Herbert’s novels.

Robert Pattinson, who has recently joined the franchise, expressed his admiration for the previous films, praising the storytelling that has captivated audiences. “I absolutely adored these movies,” he stated, reflecting on the impact of the 2021 film Dune and its follow-up, Dune: Part Two. The British actor recounted how he approached his co-star Zendaya, who reprises her role as Chani, while working on their upcoming project The Drama. “Can I get in one of those Dune movies?” he jokingly inquired.

In a lighthearted exchange, Zendaya responded, “I know a guy,” insinuating her potential influence in Pattinson landing a role in the franchise. The actor later noted that it was quite the surprise when he received a call offering him the part of Scytale, a character from Frank Herbert’s 1969 novel Dune Messiah. “I kind of did think you [had] something to do with it!” he added, acknowledging Zendaya’s potential role in his casting.

Dune: Part Three promises to bring back familiar faces, including Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides, alongside Zendaya. The film will also feature returning actors Rebecca Ferguson, Florence Pugh, Anya Taylor-Joy, Javier Bardem, Josh Brolin, and Jason Momoa, whose character is confirmed to make a return in a shocking plot twist. Villeneuve, who co-wrote the script with Brian K. Vaughan, aims to conclude his adaptation of Herbert’s literature with this film.

Pattinson highlighted the exceptional quality of the project during the trailer reveal, stating, “The cast is so incredible. Everybody wants to work with Denis. I mean, he’s a master.” He praised the scope and ambition seen on set, emphasising how this dedication translates to the screen. Fans can expect the same cinematic grandeur that has characterised the earlier films.

The character Scytale, played by Pattinson, is described as multifaceted and enigmatic, making his addition to the storyline all the more intriguing. “You can’t really tell whose side he’s on, which makes him quite interesting,” the actor elaborated. He refrained from categorising Scytale as a traditional villain, suggesting that his character could have layers that fans will need to explore upon viewing. “I wouldn’t say he was a conventional bad guy as such. I don’t think he is. He might even be a good guy. Who knows? I will also find out when I see the movie,” Pattinson quipped, adding a sense of mystery to his role.

Timothée Chalamet also participated in the event via a video message, celebrating the journey of the Dune films. “After two impactful films with an in-development process that started in the mid-2010s and over 150 production days across the three films, today we are debuting the trailer to Dune: Part Three,” he shared. Chalamet credited Villeneuve’s exceptional talent for making the project possible, positioning the director as a vital force within the industry.

Dune: Part Three is set to captivate audiences with its intricate storytelling and stunning visuals. Alongside this upcoming release, Pattinson and Zendaya are slated to appear together in two additional films this year: The Drama, which is set to premiere on April 3, and Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, scheduled for July 17.

As the countdown to its release begins, excitement continues to build around Dune: Part Three. With a star-studded cast and a masterful director at the helm, the film is anticipated to be a thrilling conclusion to Villeneuve’s interpretation of Herbert’s revered works. Fans can only await with bated breath to see how the characters’ journeys unfold in this cinematic universe.