Robert Pattinson may have pulled ahead in the race to play James Bond.

One theory going around Hollywood holds that director Denis Villeneuve and the 007 producers were not won over by the first group of actors who tried out. Jack Lowden and Callum Turner were among them. That is reportedly why bigger stars such as Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult got the call.

A better offer

Pattinson's terms were reportedly far more generous than what the other contenders were offered.

Lowden and Josh O'Connor would each have had to commit to four Bond movies if picked. Pattinson reportedly got that cut down to three. He is also said to be in line for a much bigger paycheck.

Hammering out his contract was reportedly so tough that some people involved wondered why the filmmakers would go to that much effort unless they truly wanted him.

The Dune connection

Pattinson already knows Villeneuve well. The two worked together on the upcoming "Dune: Part Three." The director reportedly always hoped to see him read for the part.

Nothing has been confirmed. The search for Daniel Craig's successor is reportedly close to wrapping up. A decision is said to be coming ahead of Christmas.

Gotham's caped hero could soon be ordering his martinis shaken, not stirred.