Robert Pattinson shows no signs of slowing down. While set to appear in several films in 2026, including 'The Drama', 'L'Odyssée', and the anticipated 'Dune: Part Three', it's Lance Oppenheim's debut fiction feature, 'Primetime' – set for release on September 23 – that has critics and festival-goers predicting his first Oscar nod.
The film draws inspiration from the controversial American TV show To Catch A Predator, a program that used actors and hidden cameras to expose men arranging sexual encounters with minors. The show's host, journalist Chris Hansen, became known for his unconventional methods, often stepping in where the judicial system typically operates. Pattinson embodies the reporter on screen.
Since its premiere at the Venice Film Festival, where 'Primetime' is competing for the Golden Lion, critics and festival attendees are already imagining the actor taking home an acting prize – with the awards set to be announced this Saturday, September 12.
First Reactions Are In
Robert Pattinson is so good in . An electric, thought-provoking ride about a pedo-hunter that flew too close to the network sun. Enhanced by a vibrant visual identity and a killer supporting cast, this could be the package that carries him to his first Oscar nomination. https://t.co/r6kN65t2ya — alex @ venice (@dunesmessiah)
"Robert Pattinson is so good in Primetime. An electrifying, thought-provoking ride about a pedophile hunter who flew too close to the sun. Enhanced by a vibrant visual identity and a killer supporting cast, this film could very well be the one that earns him his very first Oscar nomination."
Primetime redefines the standard for what a crime thriller should be. Robert Pattinson gives a career defining performance as ‘Chris Hansen’, and Lance Oppenheim’s carefully crafted work has turned out to be the movie of the year.. A must see! https://t.co/kIP8NaEuCX — Father² (@federalia)
"Primetime redefines the standards of what a crime thriller should be. Robert Pattinson delivers a career-defining performance as Chris Hansen, and Lance Oppenheim's meticulously crafted work has ultimately resulted in the film of the year… A must-see!"
is a good film in almost every respect. The direction is excellent, as is the choice of colors used in the scenes. The best part is the cast, with every member delivering an outstanding performance. A shame about certain narrative points, but the rest gets a thumbs up. https://t.co/aZsMM6DhQ — MrARenVII (@MrARenVII1)
"Primetime is a good film in almost every respect. The direction is excellent, as is the choice of colors used in the scenes. The best aspect remains the cast, with every member delivering a remarkable performance. A shame about certain narrative elements, but for the rest, it's a big yes."
Beaucup aimé Primetime, dramatisation de la chute de l'émission d'infotainment how to catch a predator, portrait d'un justicier perdu dans sa quête d'attention et de pouvoir. Derrière la critique du sensationalisme, une réflexion morale sur le désir de justice. Pattinson génial https://t.co/f6CUtBUYUs — Boris Bastide (@BorisBastide)
Feel like I need to take a cold shower after watching Lance Oppenheim’s PRIMETIME. An intense, grimy and sordid tale of perversion, sensationalised TV and accountability. Really dug the atmosphere, the tone and overall aesthetic of this film - it’s giving Safdie Bros vibes.… https://t.co/e5rNCJLdIJ — Luke Hearfield @ Venice Film Festival 🇮🇹 🎥 (@LukeHearfield)
"I need a cold shower after watching Lance Oppenheim's Primetime. An intense, grimy, and sordid story centered on perversion, sensationalist television, and accountability."
"Robert Pattinson continues to prove he is one of the most versatile actors of his generation. His performance as Chris Hansen, the host of To Catch a Predator, is simply captivating. Merritt Wever truly made me uncomfortable with her gum-fueled manipulations.
But the true asset of this film is undoubtedly Skyler Gisondo, in the role of an aspiring actor who thinks he has landed the role of a lifetime. An incredible performance. Keep an eye on this guy!
My only complaint concerns the ending, which lacks a bit of impact. It doesn't quite manage to offer a sufficiently scandalous and satisfying conclusion."
Whether Robert Pattinson gets the Jake Gyllenhaal in NIGHTCRAWLER treatment remains to be seen, but this is exactly the kind of bold, unhinged performance I want to see rewarded. PRIMETIME only confirms it: Pattinson has become the most exciting actor of his generation. https://t.co/ziOWQxeRSs — Mia @ Venice Film Festival (@justmiaslife)
"I would be curious to see if Robert Pattinson will receive the same treatment as Jake Gyllenhaal in Nightcrawler, but this is exactly the kind of bold, completely unhinged performance I would like to see rewarded. Primetime only confirms it: Pattinson has become the most exciting actor of his generation."
'Primetime' hits cinemas on September 23.