A24's 'Primetime' Opens Strong Despite Chris Hansen's Public Criticism

Key points

• The film earned $2.7 million in Thursday previews, projecting an opening weekend total of $16 million to $20 million.
• The production cost $15 million, meaning a projected opening in that range would likely result in a profitable theatrical run.
• A24 outperformed Paramount and Warner Bros. in total summer grosses, earning $237 million compared to Paramount's $192 million and Warner Bros.' $165 million.
• Brad Pitt's 'Heart of the Beast' earned $2 million in previews, trailing 'Primetime' despite having a significantly larger $82 million budget.
• The film faces competition from the 'Resident Evil' reboot and the 'Avengers: Endgame' re-release, both of which are projected to outgross 'Primetime' in their respective windows.

Background

The film had a strong festival debut, receiving a nine-minute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival in August. Prior to its wide release, Chris Hansen refused a private screening after A24 required him to sign a restrictive non-disclosure agreement that would have surrendered his name and image rights. The movie had already drawn mixed-to-positive critical attention for its satirical take on the ethics of reality television.

How outlets are covering it

IndieWire emphasizes the financial success and A24's dominance in the summer box office. The Atlantic focuses on the film's critical edge and its portrayal of the 'To Catch a Predator' era as a sordid, shallow spectacle. Rolling Stone highlights the personal conflict, noting that Chris Hansen watched the film and gave Pattinson's performance a 'D' grade, calling the movie 'so detached from reality' and a 'hit piece.' The Washington Post frames the film as a 'superhero movie' for Chris Hansen, praising Pattinson's performance while acknowledging the film's controversial nature.

Why it matters

The strong preview numbers indicate that audience interest in the cultural controversy surrounding 'To Catch a Predator' is translating into ticket sales, despite the real-life subject's public disapproval. It also demonstrates A24's ability to compete with major studio blockbusters in the current market.

What to watch

The film is expected to open in theaters on September 25, 2026. Its performance will determine if it can secure a profitable run and potentially position Robert Pattinson for an Oscar nomination, though the race is noted to be crowded with other high-profile performances.