The new film *Primetime*, which stars Robert Pattinson as Chris Hansen, the host of the controversial *To Catch a Predator* series from 2004 to 2007, has recently premiered in theaters. The film explores the investigative news program known for using hidden cameras to expose suspected child predators by confronting them on camera before police intervention. Despite the show's massive ratings success, it was canceled in 2008 following the suicide of a suspect who was about to be arrested, an event that added to the controversy surrounding the series.

At its Venice International Film Festival debut on September 5, 2026, *Primetime* received a 93% “fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes from 14 critics. However, after more reviews poured in, the critics' score has dropped to 86% based on 155 critiques, with an 82% audience approval rating. Critics generally praise Pattinson’s performance, describing it as chilling and compelling, while opinions on the film’s style and depth are mixed, with some calling it flashy or overly stylized and questioning whether it fully captures the complexity of justice versus spectacle.

Despite critical and audience support, Chris Hansen himself expressed strong dissatisfaction with *Primetime*. In a video posted on X (formerly Twitter) and further discussed on his podcast, Hansen described the film as “bizarre” and “detached from reality,” emphasizing that it did not reflect his actual experiences in investigating predators. Hansen had also previously refused to view an early screening, declining to sign what he deemed an overly restrictive non-disclosure agreement, an issue that fueled his criticism.

Notable film critics hold diverging views: Peter Travers highlighted Pattinson’s Oscar-worthy portrayal, while other critics like those from The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times found the film lacking in nuance and emotional engagement. The movie’s director, Lance Oppenheim, along with co-stars Merritt Wever and others, depict a media event that still sparks polarized reactions about its impact on journalism and television’s role in justice. *Primetime* is rated R and now available in theaters, continuing to stir debate over its subject matter and execution.