Robert Pattinson has transformed into Chris Hansen, the host of the former NBC series "To Catch a Predator," for the upcoming A24 thriller "Primetime." The first trailer for the film, directed by Lance Oppenheim, was released Thursday and features Pattinson adopting Hansen's persona as he aimed to make television history in the 2000s.
"To Catch a Predator" utilized sting operations to confront adults accused of attempting to meet minors for sex, before their subsequent arrest by law enforcement. The trailer showcases Pattinson delivering some of Hansen's most recognizable lines, such as, "What would have happened if I wasn't here?" and "I'm Chris Hansen, with Dateline NBC, and you're about to be a part of television history."
Upon the trailer's release, social media buzzed with praise for Pattinson's performance, with many users predicting an Oscar nomination and anticipating another hit from A24. Fans noted Pattinson's ability to embody distinct characters, with one user writing, "If there's one thing Pattinson is going to bring to the table, it's a crazy little voice."
However, the trailer also prompted questions from viewers regarding the film's potential to address the controversy that led to the abrupt end of "To Catch a Predator." Some users expressed concern that the trailer might portray Hansen in a negative light, while others inquired if the narrative would delve into the circumstances surrounding the show's cancellation.
"To Catch a Predator" concluded shortly after a controversial 2006 sting operation in Texas involving an assistant district attorney named Bill Conradt. Conradt, who was accused of communicating online with a decoy posing as a minor, died by suicide at his home as police, accompanied by "Dateline NBC" cameras, arrived to serve a search warrant. Although Hansen has stated the series simply ran its course, the Conradt case is widely considered the catalyst for the show's cancellation in 2008.
In recent years, Pattinson has demonstrated his versatility by balancing roles in major studio productions like "The Batman" and "The Boy and the Heron" with more independent projects. His upcoming filmography includes "Dune: Part Three" and "The Batman: Part II."
"Primetime" is slated for theatrical release on September 25.