Robert Pattinson continues to surprise audiences with his bold career choices, and his latest role in A24’s Primetime is no exception. The film, directed by Lance Oppenheim in his narrative feature debut, delves into the controversial world of To Catch a Predator the infamous Dateline NBC segment that ended in tragedy. With a 94% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes the film has garnered significant buzz, but the reviews tell a more nuanced story.
The film’s narrative revolves around the production of To Catch a Predator a show that set up hidden cameras to catch child predators. The 2025 documentary Predators directed by David Osit had already explored the ethical implications of the show, leaving Primetime to focus more on the psychological disintegration of its host, Chris Hansen played by Pattinson.
Pattinson’s mesmerizing performance
Critics have been unanimous in their praise for Pattinson’s performance. Raphael Abraham of the Financial Times described it as a darkly mesmerizing performance while Deadline suggested that Pattinson may be entering a Christian Bale period of his career. The actor’s ability to embody Hansen, from his physical mannerisms to his vocal impersonation, has been particularly lauded.
Pattinson’s portrayal is supported by a stellar cast, including Merritt Wever as Hansen’s producer Andie, Skyler Gisondo as a decoy, and Phoebe Bridgers in a revelatory role. The film’s greasy, saturated visuals and throbbing score create a claustrophobic atmosphere that complements the performances.
The film’s ethical ambiguity
While Pattinson’s performance has been widely praised, critics have noted a lack of critical edge regarding the ethics of To Catch a Predator. Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian found the film to be strangely overwrought and heavy-footed unsure of what it wants to say about media or morality. David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter thought the film showed too little intellectual or psychological curiosity to displace Predators as the more serious study.
The film’s narrow focus on Hansen’s psychological disintegration leaves little room for context or ethical exploration. This is perhaps its most significant misstep, as it fails to swing its ravenous camera back on us as Variety’s Jessica Kiang noted. The film’s attempt to imply Hansen has a system of belief is less convincing than its portrayal of him as a void wrapped in an ego.
The film’s reception and future prospects
Despite its ethical ambiguity, Primetime has been a critical success, with Pattinson’s performance standing out as a highlight. The film’s early Rotten Tomatoes score of 94% is impressive, although the reviews suggest a more nuanced picture. The film’s success is likely to open doors for Lance Oppenheim whose previous documentaries Some Kind of Heaven and Spermworld were critically acclaimed.
If you’re a fan of Pattinson or dark thrillers, Primetime is a must-watch. However, if you’re interested in a more critical exploration of the ethics of To Catch a Predator you might want to pair it with a viewing of Predators. Primetime is set to open in theaters on September 25, 2026.
