On the red carpet at the world premiere of Mickey 17 in London, Robert Pattinson dropped some exciting news for fans of The Batman. The actor revealed that The Batman: Part II is set to begin production by the end of this year. Pattinson, who plays Bruce Wayne in the franchise, kept details about the sequel under wraps during his conversation with Variety. However, he expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “I think at the end of the year? And I know what it’s about, but I can’t tell anyone, but it’s like, it’s very cool. It’s very exciting.” While fans will have to wait a bit longer for specifics, Pattinson’s eagerness suggests that the next chapter of his Caped Crusader journey is something to look forward to.
In Mickey 17, Pattinson takes on a vastly different role as Mickey Barnes, a future pastry chef turned expendable employee on a space mission. Directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Bong Joon Ho, the film is set in a unique sci-fi universe where Mickey is repeatedly “reprinted” after each death. The story also delves into a love story between Mickey and Nasha, played by Naomi Ackie, exploring themes of human identity, survival, and social inequality. Based on Edward Ashton’s novel Mickey7, the film takes creative liberties, offering a fresh take on the original material. Pattinson discussed the challenges of portraying dual roles as Mickey 17 and 18, noting the complexity of imagining interactions with another version of his character during filming.
Bong Joon Ho, known for his work on Parasite and Snowpiercer, brought his signature depth and creativity to Mickey 17. He shared that the love story between Mickey and Nasha was a new and exciting challenge for him, praising the chemistry between Pattinson and Ackie. Bong highlighted Pattinson’s performance, particularly his portrayal of Mickey 18, describing it as explosive and unforgettable. The director also hinted at his next project, an animated film slated for release in 2027, showcasing his continued innovation in storytelling.
Naomi Ackie, who plays Nasha, revealed that she added her own humor to the role through improvisation, even ad-libbing a few swear words. She also praised the film’s technical feats, especially the scenes featuring multiple versions of Pattinson’s character. These sequences utilized face-swapping technology with body doubles, creating a seamless and visually impressive experience. Ackie’s contribution to the film’s humor and heart underscores the collaborative effort behind Mickey 17.
The film also boasts a star-studded cast, including Toni Collette and Mark Ruffalo, who play an “insane narcissistic” couple overseeing the expendables program from luxurious surroundings. Collette praised Bong’s directing style, emphasizing his meticulous preparation while allowing actors the freedom to explore their roles. This balance of structure and creativity is a hallmark of Bong’s work, and it shines through in the performances of the ensemble cast.
Mickey 17 is set to release worldwide on March 7, courtesy of Warner Bros. With its blend of sci-fi action, heartfelt romance, and social commentary, the film promises to be a thought-provoking and visually stunning experience. Pattinson’s dual performance, Ackie’s humor, and Bong’s masterful direction make Mickey 17 a must-watch for fans of the genre. Meanwhile, the news about The Batman: Part II has only heightened anticipation for Pattinson’s return as the iconic superhero. As audiences await both films, one thing is clear: Robert Pattinson continues to push boundaries in his roles, delivering performances that captivate and inspire.
