Robert Pattinson Believes Audiences Will Support His Villain in ‘The Odyssey’

Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ has been making waves in the media this week, and the excitement is only building as the film approaches its theatrical release. With star-studded photocalls and a sea-themed red carpet in London, the cast has been sharing plenty of memorable insights for fans. Each new interview unveils another layer of what viewers can anticipate from Nolan’s grand adaptation of Homer’s classic epic.

Robert Pattinson has quickly emerged as one of the most discussed members of the cast, largely due to his role as the film’s main antagonist. The former ‘Twilight’ star is taking on a much darker character this time, and he has been open about what drives his character. His remarks during the London press tour have already ignited discussions among long-time fans of his work.

In ‘The Odyssey,’ Pattinson portrays Antinous, one of the many suitors relentlessly pursuing Queen Penelope while her husband Odysseus is presumed dead after the Trojan War. When asked about the challenge of playing a character that audiences might not typically root for, the actor gave a surprisingly playful answer. He suggested that some viewers might actually find themselves supporting his villain, similar to how they did for a certain character from his past films.

“I think they will be rooting for him. I keep comparing it, it’s kind of like Jacob in Twilight,” Pattinson said during an interview with MTV U.K. at the world premiere, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. The comparison drew laughter, given how different the ancient Greek backdrop of ‘The Odyssey’ is from the teenage werewolf saga of the ‘Twilight Saga.’ However, the connection makes sense when you consider the dynamics at play in both narratives.

Pattinson elaborated on the love triangle central to the film, framing his character’s motivations in a humorous light. “What The Odyssey is about, Penelope just can’t make her mind up between the two guys and I’m just trying to help her make a decision. It’s like, it’s fine. He’s dead, get over it,” he joked. This remark highlights the absurdity of Antinous believing he has a genuine chance with Penelope while Odysseus is still very much alive and making his way home.

For those needing a reminder, Jacob Black was portrayed by Taylor Lautner in the ‘Twilight’ franchise, serving as a rival for Bella Swan’s affection against Pattinson’s own Edward Cullen throughout the series. Despite not winning that love triangle, Jacob garnered a massive and dedicated fanbase over the years. Pattinson’s suggestion that Antinous could inspire a similar kind of loyalty adds an unexpectedly meta layer to his latest role.

‘The Odyssey’ follows Odysseus on his treacherous ten-year journey home to Ithaca after the fall of Troy, battling mythical creatures and forces along the way while his family anxiously awaits his return. Matt Damon stars as Odysseus, with Anne Hathaway as Penelope and Tom Holland as their son Telemachus. The cast also features Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’o, and Charlize Theron among a sprawling ensemble that has created significant anticipation ahead of the release.

Pattinson previously shared insights into his approach to portraying Antinous, revealing that he drew inspiration from an unexpected source to develop the character. He aimed for a sleazier, more theatrical presence, even making specific costume requests that emphasized the character’s arrogance. This commitment to embracing the villain’s excess seems to be resonating, based on early reactions to his premiere comments.

Fans online have already embraced the Twilight comparison, with numerous jokes circulating about Antinous potentially becoming an unexpected fan favorite despite his scheming nature. Given the divisive nature of love triangles in pop culture, it will be intriguing to see if audiences align with Pattinson’s prediction once the film is released. ‘The Odyssey’ hits theaters on July 17.

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