There was a time when it was “cool” to make fun of Robert Pattinson’s performance as Edward, which had pigeonholed him with the image of a heartthrob. Since then, though, it’s become clear he’s a very talented actor, who is about to become the next Batman too.
Proof of this fact is how Robert’s roles following The Twilight Saga’s conclusion in 2012 are mainly smaller films that showed off his talent. Even more impressive is how only a couple of them have the “rotten” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with every other film in this list boasting a “fresh” rating. For you to know more about what the actor’s been up to since Twilight, read on and find out.
The Rover (2014) - 66%
After being absent from the screen for a two-year period, Robert followed up by starring in a movie that most haven’t even seen. However, this was the film that did wonders for him in showing his range.
The Rover is about a dystopian Australia where a man hunts down the people a who stole his car, where Robert plays the brother of one of the robbers reluctantly helping the protagonist. The film’s dystopian and western setting garnered praise, although some felt it didn’t fulfill its potential. However, Robert was widely lauded for playing against type.
Maps To The Stars (2014) - 61%
It became clear by this point that Robert was firmly looking into blending in the background in his films and offer variety in his roles, as Maps to the Stars had him in a relatively small but interesting supporting part.
The film is a satirical take on the western entertainment industry, where a whole lot of bizarre happenings take place. Robert played the role of a struggling actor making his way as a limo driver for a more popular actress. The movie received generally positive reviews, with these being mainly for the cast’s performances.
Queen Of The Desert (2015) - 18%
Perhaps the biggest box office bomb in Robert’s filmography, Queen of the Desert was a vehicle anchored by Nicole Kidman which suffered from a lack of direction. Its muddled plot and lack of cohesiveness meant one couldn’t really piece together what was happening in this biopic about Gertrude Bell.
Robert played the T.E. Lawrence, better known as “Lawrence of Arabia.” Being a supporting role in an ensemble cast, he wasn’t very noticeable in this performance, although the film’s lackluster results means that was a good thing.
Life (2015) - 65%
Robert continued his venture into smaller, meaningful roles in 2015, when he appeared alongside Dane DeHaan in a story that was deep in quality and simple in execution. Life is about real life photographer Dennis Stock’s travels with the actor James Dean.
The film’s reviews were chiefly centered around the young lead actors’ performances, who were praised for making this an entertaining watch; the story was simply about these men talking about their life experiences. It’s a good watch for those who care more about characterization than convoluted plot lines.
The Childhood Of A Leader (2016) - 89%
In what is a strange and mysterious character study, this film takes a look at the childhood of a future fascist leader of a state and the reasons why he became the way he did. Robert plays a dual role in this feature, playing the boy’s biological father as well as the adult version of the boy in question.
The film might not be for everyone given its storyline, but you should still check it out for it being a worthy effort in bringing artistic quality to the screen. Robert here resembles nothing like the pretty boy image he was stereotyped with.
The Lost City Of Z (2016) - 86%
For those wondering if Robert will be able to keep up with the mystery that will come with fighting foes as the Batman, they should check out his nuanced performance here. The movie is part-action and part-historical drama that demanded a gritty delivery from its actors.
Good Time (2017) - 92%
Speaking of range, here’s the best-reviewed film the actor has ever appeared in as of yet with Good Time, a fast paced crime thriller. Looking nothing like he usually does, Robert played a desperate bank robber who attempts to gather enough money to bail his brother out.
The direction of the movie was lauded as being visually stunning and packing in thrills along with a message about how crime doesn’t pay. It’s a great effort by talented directors and a star-making performance by Robert as the lead.
Damsel (2018) - 69%
It’s not all drama in Robert’s film credits, and he made sure to change things up with Damsel, a comedy set in the old west. The movie has its fair share of twists and turns, as every character here turns out not to be how you expect them to be.
Telling the story of a pair of men out to rescue a dame they both fall for, Damsel shows their mishaps along the way as neither are them are cut out for the adventures they take part in. It’s a funny story that has enough space to add in some great twists late in the film.
High Life (2018) - 83%
Those aware of Claire Denis will know of her penchant to create awe-inspiring and challenging stories, and High Life is one hellish tale that deserves a viewing. Featuring incredible cinematography and a theme where human ethics are questioned, it was one of Robert’s greatest acting tests.
He shined through, though, in a tale about a group of prisoners in space who have to survive being violated by the person controlling them as guinea pigs. The latter half of the movie then switches from horror to drama, as Robert takes on the role of a father.
The Lighthouse (2019) - 91%
Psychological horror films can’t work if there isn’t good chemistry between the characters and if there isn’t a story that messes with your mind, and The Lighthouse avoided any mistakes by delivering on all fronts. Its simple plot, being about two keepers who begin losing their minds in a lighthouse, is bolstered by the fantastic performances of the leads.
However, the overall effort in creating the film also deserves full credit, as the screenplay and cinematography have also been given wide praise. Robert’s portrayal of a man descending into madness had initially seen buzz about him bagging an Oscar nomination.
The King (2019) - 70%
Timothee Chalamet is all the rage these days for being a versatile young actor, so it’s easy to miss how Robert was seen opposite Chalamet in The King. Here, Robert’s role as the Dauphin saw him play the villain role in the film.
The story is based on the real King Henry V in his youth, and takes place across the time where he was being challenged for his competency. It’s a period film which hinges on the performances of its young cast, and is a good watch for those wanting something different from mainstream films.
Waiting For The Barbarians (2019) - 53%
Details are scarce for the most recent credit in Robert’s career, as Waiting for the Barbarians had a very limited release. Based on a bestselling novel, the story is about a magistrate played by Mark Rylance, who becomes disillusioned with the empire he serves.
Also starring Johnny Depp as a policeman with no qualms in breaking ethical boundaries, the main character is seen embarking on a journey where he discovers how corruption can easily be concealed. Nestled within this story is the character of Officer Mandel played by Robert, who forms one of the reasons why the magistrate finds himself questioning his loyalties.
