Robert Pattinson Tested for James Bond, and the Batcave Is Nervous
Shaken, not stirred, and possibly wearing a cape on weekends.
The race to become the next James Bond just got considerably more famous, because Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult joined Jack Lowden, Josh O'Connor and Callum Turner in recent screen tests for 007, insiders told Deadline on November 6 (Men's Journal).
The Hollywood Reporter was first to report that Pattinson had quietly tested for the role in London (CBR). That gives Amazon MGM five finalists for the most famous tuxedo in movies.
Who is on the James Bond shortlist?
The five actors who have reportedly screen-tested are Robert Pattinson, Nicholas Hoult, Jack Lowden, Josh O'Connor and Callum Turner. Lowden, Turner and O'Connor were the names reported for weeks, so Pattinson and Hoult are the big new additions.
There's even a little drama in how the list came together, since Deadline's insiders said one test was added at the last minute, while Deadline reporter Justin Kroll later said Hoult and Pattinson were always in the final four.
Variety also reports that Harry Styles had talks with executives about the role, and that Theo James hasn't been ruled out. Neither of them is on the reported screen test list.
Why are Pattinson and Hoult such big names?
Both actors already have enormous franchise experience. Pattinson is currently filming The Batman Part II in London, and he also appears in Dune: Part Three, which arrives on December 18. At 40, he would be one of the older actors to begin the role.
Hoult played Lex Luthor in Superman, and he was famously the runner-up to Pattinson when Warner Bros. cast its new Batman. If Hoult eventually lands Bond, it would be one of the most satisfying comebacks in casting history. (We would also like to see the Batman versus Bond rematch in a single tuxedo shop.)
Who is making the next Bond movie?
Amazon MGM Studios now controls the franchise. Denis Villeneuve, the director of Dune, is directing, and Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight is writing the script. Production is expected to begin in 2027, with a target release in 2028.
Amazon hasn't publicly commented on the screen tests, but according to Kroll, fans should expect a decision before Thanksgiving.
Which actor should play the next 007?
My read is that Pattinson would be the boldest choice, and Lowden would be the safest. Pattinson has spent years picking strange, risky roles, and a Villeneuve Bond could use that energy. Lowden has the classic Bond look and the backing of his Slow Horses co-star Gary Oldman, which counts for something.
Callum Turner also has a famous supporter, because former Bond Pierce Brosnan has said he likes Turner for the part. Whoever gets the call, Amazon's choice will shape the franchise for the next decade.
Who would you pick from the five finalists? Tell us in the comments.
