Primetime Movie Review: Are You Ready To Make Television History?

VERIFIED

SeenTick Critique • 2026 • Cinema

3.5 /5.0

Solid Entertainer

CRITIC VERDICT

"A gripping, if flawed, thriller that explores the darker side of true crime television"

HIGHLIGHTS

• Strong performances from the cast
• Thought-provoking themes
• Gripping narrative

CONSIDERATIONS

• Uneven pacing
• Some characters feel underdeveloped

Lance Oppenheim's Primetime is a gripping, if flawed, thriller that delves into the cutthroat world of true crime television, where the pursuit of ratings and fame can lead to a twisted game of cat and mouse. The film is anchored by a strong performance from Robert Pattinson, who embodies the complexities of Chris Hansen, the host of To Catch a Predator, as he navigates the treacherous landscape of his own making.

Behind the Glass: The Performance of Performativity

Pattinson brings a sense of gravitas and vulnerability to the role, capturing the tension between Hansen's desire for justice and his own compulsion to seek the limelight. Oppenheim's direction expertly balances the film's tone, veering seamlessly from tense, slow-burning moments to explosive, confrontational scenes. The supporting cast, including Merritt Wever and Skyler Gisondo, deliver solid performances that add depth to the narrative.

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Spotlighting the Sideshow: The Performative Justice

As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Hansen's operation is not just about catching predators, but also about creating a spectacle that will captivate audiences. The film highlights the ways in which true crime television can be both a tool for justice and a means of exploiting the vulnerable for the sake of entertainment. This theme is skillfully woven throughout the narrative, adding a layer of complexity to the story.

The Price of Fame: A Second Act of Redemption

Despite its flaws, Primetime ultimately feels like a film about the human condition, one that grapples with the consequences of our actions and the cost of our ambition. The film's second half, while somewhat uneven, contains a number of powerful moments that suggest a deeper exploration of the themes at play. By the time the credits roll, it's clear that Oppenheim's film is not just a thriller, but a nuanced, thought-provoking work that will linger in the viewer's mind long after the lights go down.

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