Robert Pattinson has quietly contributed to the film Marty Supreme without public recognition, playing a small but intriguing part. His involvement, revealed only recently, showcases the actor’s ongoing connection to experimental cinema, highlighting his unexpected role as the voice of a British ping-pong umpire in the film’s narrative.
Unknown Contribution as the Film’s Voice of Authority
During a discussion at London’s BFI Southbank, director Josh Safdie disclosed that Pattinson provided the voice of the commentator and umpire in Marty Supreme.
“No one knows this, but that voice—the commentator, the umpire—is Pattinson,”
Safdie said, according to Variety. He added,
“It’s like a little easter egg. Nobody knows about that. … He came and watched some stuff and I was like, I don’t know any British people. So he’s the umpire.”
This subtle yet distinctive role complements Pattinson’s tendency to engage with unconventional projects beyond mainstream visibility.
Collaborative History and Casting Approach
The collaboration between Pattinson and Safdie dates back to their work on the 2017 film Good Time, directed by Josh Safdie and his brother Benny. For Marty Supreme, casting director Jennifer Venditti and Josh Safdie focused on selecting actors based on authenticity and fit rather than acting history alone, emphasizing characters’ geographic and personal backgrounds. This approach brought together an eclectic ensemble, reflecting the film’s atmosphere and setting.
Authenticity Behind the Ensemble Casting
Luke Manley, who plays Marty’s friend Dion, described his unexpected casting. After being featured in a Side Talk video depicting his reaction to a New York Knicks loss, Safdie saw qualities in Manley’s performance, saying,
“I want that guy in my movie.”
This process underscores the filmmakers’ preference for raw and genuine personas to populate the film’s world. In a similar vein, Pattinson’s British identity made him a fitting choice for the role of the 1950s umpire, blending seamlessly into the film’s distinct texture.
Significance and Potential Impact of Pattinson’s Role
Though Pattinson’s involvement in Marty Supreme remains subtle, his voice role adds a surprising layer for attentive viewers and fans. It reveals the actor’s continued commitment to creative and innovative projects, beyond the usual spotlight. As Marty Supreme gains attention, this hidden detail may spark renewed interest in Pattinson’s diverse and often secretive contributions to independent cinema, hinting at more unexpected performances in his future endeavors.
