Pattinson Reveals Challenge of Mimicking Chris Hansen's Voice for 'Primetime'
Robert Pattinson discussed mastering Chris Hansen's distinctive voice for the A24 film 'Primetime,' calling it incredibly difficult. He listened to Hansen's podcast to study his vocal patterns and practiced while walking around. The film chronicles the making of 'To Catch a Predator' and hits theaters Sept. 25.
Pattinson's preparation involved immersive study of Hansen's podcast, where the former Dateline correspondent revisits cases from the show's original run. The actor's public practice sessions reportedly drew confused reactions from pedestrians unfamiliar with the source material. The film marks Oppenheim's first narrative feature, following his documentary work, and Pattinson described the production as a collaborative team effort from inception through completion.
Hansen has maintained distance from the project, noting that filmmakers contacted him only after principal photography concluded. Despite his reservations about the film's dramatic approach, he acknowledged Pattinson's vocal work as a credible approximation based on the trailer. The film's September release positions it as a major A24 fall offering, with Hansen reportedly purchasing ad space before every screening.
The film could reignite public conversation about true-crime entertainment ethics, particularly how media sensationalism intersects with real-world consequences. Audiences may reconsider their own consumption of crime content, while journalists and producers might reflect on responsibility in storytelling. The project's existence suggests continued appetite for behind-the-scenes examinations of controversial media phenomena, potentially influencing how similar stories are told in the future.