Dune: Part Three Trailer Drops, Revealing Robert Pattinson’s Chilling New Villain
The highly anticipated first trailer for Dune: Part Three has officially landed, giving fans a tantalising glimpse of Robert Pattinson in his eerie new role as the shapeshifting villain Scytale. Set to hit cinemas this December, the final instalment of Denis Villeneuve’s epic Dune trilogy introduces the Twilight star, aged 39, as a master manipulator from the enigmatic Tleilaxu race.
In Frank Herbert’s original novels, Scytale is a Face Dancer – a genetically engineered being capable of altering their appearance and a key player in a sinister plot to depose Emperor Paul Atreides, portrayed by Timothée Chalamet. This forthcoming cinematic event promises the return of beloved characters and the introduction of chilling new threats.
A Star-Studded Ensemble Returns
Alongside Pattinson’s debut, Dune: Part Three will see the triumphant return of a formidable cast:
- Zendaya as Chani
- Javier Bardem as Stilgar
- Rebecca Ferguson as Lady Jessica
- Florence Pugh as Princess Irulan
- Anya Taylor-Joy as Alia Atreides
- Isaach De Bankolé as Farok
The trailer’s dramatic tension is palpable as Paul confides in his mother, Lady Jessica, with the poignant observation, “War feeds on itself. The more I fight, the more enemies fight back.” It is during this moment of introspection that Pattinson’s Scytale makes his striking entrance, sporting a bleached-blond buzz cut and shaved eyebrows, a stark departure from the familiar visages of Arrakis.
Paul’s anxieties continue to mount as scenes of intense conflict unfold. “I’m doing the best I can to protect my family,” he states, underscoring the immense pressure he faces. The trailer culminates with another appearance from Scytale, who is seen calmly navigating a throng of native Fremen, complete with their distinctive nose plugs, a chilling testament to his unsettling presence.
First Look at Paul Atreides’ Evolved Appearance
Hours prior to the trailer’s release, Timothée Chalamet delighted fans by sharing exclusive first-look images of the film’s key characters. Chalamet’s own character poster revealed a Paul Atreides dramatically transformed. Clad in a Fremen stillsuit, his face bore the marks of his arduous journey, with prominent red scarring and deep wrinkles etched around his eyes. This visual evolution signifies a significant shift from his portrayal in the first two instalments, hinting at the immense toll his ascent to power has taken.
Continuing the Saga: From Emperor to Holy War
Dune: Part Three is set to pick up directly in the aftermath of the explosive events of Dune: Part Two. The previous film concluded with Paul Atreides successfully overthrowing the Padishah Emperor, seizing the throne, and igniting a galaxy-spanning holy war led by the Fremen.
The third part of the trilogy is expected to find Paul already entrenched in his new role as Emperor, grappling with the profound and far-reaching consequences of his momentous decisions. The narrative will delve into the complexities of ruling and the ripple effects of his actions across the known universe.
Pattinson’s Desert Immersion
Until now, Robert Pattinson’s character had been shrouded in secrecy. In a candid interview with IndieWire back in November, the acclaimed actor, known for his role as Batman, offered a fascinating insight into his experience filming in the unforgiving Arabian desert.
“When I was doing Dune, it was so hot in the desert that I just couldn’t question anything,” Pattinson recalled. “And it was so relaxing, like my brain actually wasn’t operating. I did not have a single functioning brain cell. And I was just listening to Denis: ‘Whatever you want!’” This anecdote highlights the immersive and demanding nature of the production, as well as Villeneuve’s guiding hand.
A Trilogy Based on Herbert’s Vision
The Dune cinematic journey began in 2021 with Dune: Part One, which masterfully adapted the first half of Frank Herbert’s seminal 1965 novel, Dune. Dune: Part Two followed in 2024, bringing the remainder of the beloved book’s narrative to the big screen.
Dune: Part Three, however, ventures into new territory, drawing its inspiration from the second novel in Herbert’s original Dune series, Dune Messiah. This choice promises to explore a more intricate and politically charged phase of Paul Atreides’ reign and the unfolding galactic conflict.
Mark your calendars: Dune: Part Three is scheduled for release in theatres on December 18th.
