Robert Pattinson jokes 'The Odyssey' is a love story for his character
The actor brought humour to 'The Odyssey' press tour by jokingly reframing one of Greek mythology's most infamous villains
Robert Pattinson has shared an unexpected perspective on his The Odyssey character, insisting the film's notorious antagonist isn't really the villain after all.
Speaking to People at the London premiere of Christopher Nolan's epic adaptation, Pattinson opened up about playing Antinous, one of the suitors competing for Queen Penelope while Odysseus remains missing.
Rather than viewing the character as a straightforward antagonist, the actor jokingly described Antinous' pursuit of Penelope as a romance.
“I don't think he's really the bad guy,” Pattinson said. “It's a love story!”
The actor also quipped that Anne Hathaway's Penelope was simply “waiting for Antinous to get older,” offering a humorous take on the pair's complicated on-screen dynamic.
In the film, Hathaway portrays Penelope, who remains loyal to her husband Odysseus, played by Matt Damon, while Antinous and several other suitors attempt to claim the throne during the king's absence. Tom Holland stars as their son, Telemachus.
Pattinson admitted he enjoys taking on morally complex roles, saying he prefers to “lower people's expectations” before delivering something unexpected.
The actor also praised Zendaya, his co-star in The Odyssey, The Drama and the upcoming Dune: Part Three, calling her “the best” and “such a great actress.”
Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey has enjoyed a strong theatrical debut, becoming one of the biggest box office openings of the year while boasting an ensemble cast that also includes Charlize Theron, Lupita Nyong'o and Elliot Page.