The 23-year-old British actor - who plays vampire Edward Cullen in the hit movie franchise - owes his success to the Academy Award-nominated star of 'Rebel Without a Cause'.
He said: "I tried copying James Dean's accent just because I've always wanted James Dean's voice. I think that is why it has worked. Everyone loves a bit of James Dean."
Pattinson also tried to copy the acting style of the screen legend, who tragically died aged 24 after a car crash.
He added: "'Rebel Without a Cause' was a big influence on the first 'Twilight' film - it influenced the hair and stuff. In lots of ways, it has a very similar character arc. An everyday girl brings this relatively strange individual out of his slump."
Although Pattinson is thrilled with the success of 'Twilight', he admits he still feels overawed by his legions of female fans.
He said: "I'm not entirely sure what it is. I'll probably realise afterwards how I could have controlled it a little bit more. But I am still like a deer in headlights at the moment."