Robert Pattinson Set to Star in New A24 Crime Drama Before The Batman Part II

Robert Pattinson is incredibly busy this year with several major films coming out. He’s starring in Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, A24’s The Drama, and Dune: Part Three, as well as reprising his role in the eagerly awaited The Batman Part II. As Pattinson proves his range as an actor, his latest project is generating a lot of buzz and could be his most compelling role yet.

A24 has released a first look at its upcoming film, Primetime, directed by Lance Oppenheim. The dark crime drama features Robert Pattinson portraying Chris Hansen, the journalist famous for hosting the To Catch a Predator series on NBC. The show, which ran for 20 episodes, was canceled after a tragic incident involving a participant. The trailer highlights Pattinson’s unsettling portrayal of Hansen, and the film appears to be a strong contender for one of the best biographical movies in recent years. Pattinson is both the star and a producer on the project.

Primetime Looks More Like a Thriller Than a Biopic

The new series Primetime takes a look back at the controversial history of To Catch a Predator, the popular show from the mid-2000s and the intense media attention it received. Instead of re-enacting the show’s sting operations—which targeted men who believed they were communicating with a child—Primetime focuses on the ethical questions, the sensationalism, and the moral complexities of true crime entertainment. Robert Pattinson delivers a chilling performance as Chris Hansen, almost unrecognizable with a changed voice and a subtly disturbing acting style. The series follows Pattinson’s portrayal of Hansen as he tries to create a groundbreaking television event, while blurring the lines between responsible journalism and exploitative practices.

Robert Pattinson seems ideally cast in the challenging lead role, building on his history of playing characters with questionable ethics. Merritt Weaver, Skyler Gisondo, and Phoebe Bridgers (making her film debut) will also appear in Primetime. While A24 hasn’t announced a specific date, the film is currently slated for release in fall 2026, possibly in September. That means audiences will have several Pattinson movies to enjoy before The Batman Part II arrives. Despite only a short teaser being available, Primetime is already generating significant buzz and looks to be one of A24’s most talked-about films this year.

A24 Has Another Hit on Its Hands

The striking and unique visuals in Primetime have the potential to make it one of the best crime biopics in recent years. Director Oppenheim’s experience with documentaries will likely create a very realistic and unsettling tone, and the trailer suggests this perfectly. The early footage feels more like a suspenseful thriller – similar to films from A24 – than a typical biography, with Robert Pattinson’s performance driving that feeling of tension. He won’t be playing a simple hero or villain, but a complex man struggling with his own fame and sense of right and wrong.

Robert Pattinson seems perfectly suited for challenging and complex roles, and Primetime appears to be just that. Since moving beyond the Twilight series, he’s consistently chosen daring and innovative projects, like The Lighthouse and Good Time. 2026 looks like a breakthrough year for Pattinson, and if he hasn’t already received widespread recognition for his talent, his upcoming work will undoubtedly prove his skill.

2026-05-30 15:06

Primetime Looks More Like a Thriller Than a Biopic

A24 Has Another Hit on Its Hands

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