Robert Pattinson's Oppenheimer absence explained

Robert Pattinson was announced as one of the unlikely driving forces behind Christopher Nolan's biographical epic Oppenheimer being made, but fans have been left wondering why the Batman star is not among the cast.

Last month, the director revealed he was inspired to make the film, which tells the story of nuclear physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer, after Pattinson gifted him a book of his speeches after Tenet wrapped filming.

It stands to reason then that many fans wondered why the actor did not receive a prominent role in the film, set to be released on July 21 alongside Greta Gerwig's eagerly-anticipated Barbie movie.

Related: Oppenheimer star Emily Blunt to take year off from acting

Speaking with journalist Tara Hitchcock, the Dark Knight director revealed why Pattinson was not involved with Oppenheimer, saying "he was busy" and "he's very much in demand these days".

The Interstellar director also spoke about how the story of Oppenheimer and the Manhattan Project influenced him and is even referenced in Tenet.

"You're reading these great intellects trying to deal with the massive consequences of the way in which they've changed life forever for all of us," he continued. "And I really got hooked on the story."

Related: Matt Damon says Cillian Murphy is "phenomenal" in Oppenheimer

Twilight star Pattinson was recently revealed to be starring in Adam McKay's black-comedy Average Height, Average Build alongside Iron Man actor Robert Downey Jr. The film, which will stream on Netflix, follows a serial killer (Pattinson) who enlists a lobbyist (Amy Adams) to change the law so that he can get away with murder.

Pattinson is also set to star in Mickey 17, helmed by Parasite director Bong Joon-ho, and set for release on March 29, 2024.

Oppenheimer, which is based on the book American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J Robert Oppenheimer, is set for release on July 21, 2023.

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