Robert Pattinson expressed hope that Chris Hansen will eventually embrace “Primetime,” a psychological thriller premiering at the Venice Film Festival that centers on the real-life television journalist and “To Catch a Predator” host. Hansen has publicly expressed reservations about the film, which he declined to watch after refusing to sign a standard non-disclosure agreement with distributor A24. Based on the trailer alone, Hansen criticized Pattinson’s portrayal as overly theatrical and questioned Hollywood’s approach to dramatizing the popular Dateline NBC series.
At the festival’s press conference, Pattinson acknowledged Hansen’s skepticism while defending the project. The actor noted that Hansen’s undeniable charisma and presence have captivated audiences for decades, suggesting that the character’s cultural impact should be viewed as a compliment. Pattinson reflected on Hansen’s magnetic television presence, noting that viewers remain fascinated by the show more than two decades after its original run, an attraction that extends beyond the subject matter alone.
Directed by Lance Oppenheim in his narrative feature debut, “Primetime” is set during the mid-2000s and explores the ethical boundaries of Hansen’s methods as he transforms the investigation of suspected child predators into entertainment. The film, loosely adapted from a 2007 Esquire article, examines the complex intersection of journalism, law enforcement, and commercial television. Pattinson’s co-stars include Phoebe Bridgers, the Grammy-winning musician making her acting debut, Skyler Gisondo, and Merritt Wever.
Originally reported by Variety →
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