Robert Pattinson, born on May 13, 1986, in London, England, is a versatile actor known for his work in both blockbuster hits and independent films. He gained global fame as Edward Cullen in The Twilight Saga (2008–2012), which grossed over $3.3 billion worldwide. Afterward, he transitioned to critically acclaimed roles in indie films like Good Time (2017), The Lighthouse (2019), and High Life (2018). Pattinson returned to mainstream cinema with standout performances in Tenet (2020) and as Bruce Wayne in The Batman (2022). His career showcases a remarkable range, from romantic dramas to psychological thrillers and superhero epics.
Discover the 5 best Robert Pattinson movies, as ranked by critics, showcasing his versatility and including “Mickey 17,” the sci-fi black comedy directed by Bong Joon Ho.
Good Time (2017)
In Good Time (2017), Robert Pattinson delivers a career-defining performance as Connie Nikas, a small-time criminal navigating New York City’s underworld. Directed by the Safdie Brothers, the film follows Connie’s desperate attempts to free his developmentally disabled brother, Nick (played by Benny Safdie), after a botched bank robbery lands Nick in jail.
The Lighthouse (2019)
In The Lighthouse (2019), Robert Pattinson delivers a mesmerizing performance as Ephraim Winslow, a young lighthouse keeper (or “wickie”) stationed on a remote New England island in the 1890s. Directed by Robert Eggers, the film explores themes of isolation, madness, and power dynamics as Winslow clashes with his domineering supervisor, Thomas Wake, played by Willem Dafoe.
The Batman (2022)
In The Batman (2022), Robert Pattinson takes on the iconic role of Bruce Wayne/Batman in a fresh and gritty reboot of the franchise. Directed by Matt Reeves, the film explores Batman’s second year as Gotham City’s vigilante, focusing on his detective skills as he investigates a series of murders orchestrated by the Riddler, played by Paul Dano.
Pattinson’s portrayal of Batman is darker and more introspective, emphasizing the character’s internal struggles and his relentless pursuit of justice. The film also stars Zoë Kravitz as Selina Kyle/Catwoman, Jeffrey Wright as James Gordon, and Colin Farrell as Oswald Cobblepot/The Penguin.
High Life (2018)
In High Life (2018), Robert Pattinson stars as Monte, a convict sent on a dangerous space mission alongside other prisoners. Directed by Claire Denis, the film is a haunting exploration of isolation, survival, and humanity’s darker impulses. The crew is tasked with extracting energy from a black hole while being subjected to unsettling reproductive experiments led by a scientist, played by Juliette Binoche.
Mickey 17 (2025)
In Mickey 17 (2025), Robert Pattinson stars as Mickey Barnes, a man who becomes an “Expendable” on a space colonization mission to the icy planet Niflheim. Directed by Bong Joon-ho, the film is based on Edward Ashton’s novel Mickey7. As an Expendable, Mickey is tasked with dangerous and often fatal assignments, only to be cloned and regenerated with his memories intact after each death.
Pattinson’s performance is central to the film’s mix of dark comedy, sci-fi, and existential drama. Critics have praised his ability to balance humor, vulnerability, and intensity, making Mickey a compelling and relatable character despite the surreal circumstances. The film also features a stellar cast, including Steven Yeun, Naomi Ackie, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo.
