Robert Pattinson is "Booked and Busy" for 2026

Juliana Adams jea74@uakron.edu

With the audiences still riding the wave of excitement from Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, I felt it was needed to acknowledge the “generational run” Robert Pattinson is currently on this year. With previous hits in the years past like Bong Hoo Jo’s Mickey 17, A24’s The Lighthouse, and Matt Reeves’ The Batman (2022), Pattinson has already established himself in the film industry. Although, the incredible influx of hit films Pattinson has had a hand in this year is astounding, and I couldn’t leave it unacknowledged. 

     Pattinson initiated this incredible streak with A24’s The Drama released this past April co-starring Zendaya. I have to say I enjoyed this offputting and seemingly peculiar film. With its extremely unique concept and the omniscity surrounding its release, I went into the film completely blind. I can confidently say it wasn’t at all what I expected, but I thoroughly enjoyed it nonetheless. Robert’s performance was astounding, and I think he nailed it when forcing the audience into a constant limbo of likability relating to his character and the choices he made. I found this film to be an intense battle of morality, but don’t want to give away too much as I truly believe the marketing was a hit in maintaining that “blind entry” experience. I recommend limiting your research on the film if you want that similar experience when seeing it, but recommend you give the film a watch nonetheless. 

   Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey continued this streak with Pattinson portraying Antinous from Homer’s 2nd installment of the classic Greek mythological tale. Pattinson’s performance was a hit across social media, as many internet memes manifested from it. Despite that, the performance truly was a standout to many viewers, and Pattinson’s portrayal of the short-tempered suitor brought the story to life for many. He was an incredible aspect of the film, and further solidified his spot as a respected actor in the industry. 

     With Dune: Part 3 set to release this coming December alongside returning costars Zendaya and Timothee Chalamet, Robert’s complete alteration of appearance has already sparked immense conversation. Portraying a shape-shifting villain called Scytale, Pattinson’s first performance in the Dune franchise is greatly anticipated. Continuing the tale of Dune for its final film, audiences are expected to return to the world of Arrakis, following Paul Atreides' journey for one final time. Following the novel series written by Frank Herbert, this film will definitely continue to solidify the Dune legacy in the entertainment industry, and audiences are itching to get the final third installment of the original trilogy story in film form.

     A24’s Primetime is easily my most anticipated film from Pattinson. This film is set to release September 25th, and follows the construction and immediate destruction of 2006’s To Catch a Predator, as Pattinson mans the lead role of Chris Hansen from Dateline NBC. The film highlights Hansen’s intense real stings with Predators broadcast on air, and his desperate angst to maintain those ratings. Earning a 94% on Rotten Tomatoes, Primetime is quickly rising to the top of many watchlists this coming September, including my own. I am greatly anticipating the performance of Pattinson in this movie, and hope his incredible streak continues upon its release.