Chris Hansen is finally weighing in on Robert Pattinson’s portrayal of him in Primetime, A24’s upcoming film inspired by the controversial rise of To Catch a Predator.
In a recent interview with Serialously With Annie Elise, Hansen addressed the movie after watching its trailer, offering a measured reaction while making it clear that he has yet to see the finished film. “It looks very dramatic,” Hansen said, acknowledging the apparent Hollywood treatment of the story surrounding the television series.
Directed by Lance Oppenheim, Primetime is set to explore the events and people connected to To Catch a Predator, the reality television series that brought Hansen to widespread attention. Pattinson takes on the role of the veteran journalist, putting his own spin on one of Hansen’s most recognizable television personas.
Hansen revealed that he had heard about the project several months ago through people connected to his various media ventures. The filmmakers also approached him about potentially contributing to the production. However, he ultimately did not become actively involved in making the movie.
For now, Hansen is reserving judgment. He said A24 is arranging a private screening for him, after which he plans to offer his full reaction to the film and assess how closely it reflects reality.
His caution stems partly from concerns about Hollywood dramatization. Hansen questioned the motivation behind using his name and the To Catch a Predator legacy in a fictionalized feature, noting that he wants to see the entire movie before making definitive comments.
“I’ve been busy being the real Chris Hansen, so I don’t have a lot of time to focus on the fake Chris Hansen,” he joked when asked about Pattinson’s performance.
Although Hansen acknowledged Pattinson’s popularity and praised director Oppenheim’s profile, he remains curious about the creative choices behind the film. He also admitted that he did not have a say in who would portray him.
In fact, Hansen previously had another actor in mind. He revealed that years ago, while working on a script of his own, he had considered Denis Leary as a potential choice to play him, depending on the age of the character.
Whether Pattinson’s interpretation will win Hansen over remains to be seen. For now, the real-life figure at the center of the story is waiting to watch Primetime before passing final judgment.
Primetime arrives in theaters September 25, with Pattinson joined by Merritt Wever, Skyler Gisondo, Phoebe Bridgers, Bokeem Woodbine, Anna Faris, Tony Revolori, Creed Bratton and others.
Source: https://www.tvinsider