Robert Pattinson’s striking transformation into veteran television journalist Chris Hansen has become an online sensation following the release of the trailer for “Primetime.”
The actor’s portrayal of Hansen, complete with a remarkably familiar look, styling and delivery, drew widespread attention after the trailer featured him saying:
“You see how this looks, right?”
The trailer quickly gained traction online, accumulating more than 43 million views on YouTube and turning Pattinson’s transformation into a viral topic.
Filipino moviegoers soon received another preview of what was coming after Mockingbird Pictures Philippines began posting clues about a possible local release, fueling speculation among local fans.
The wait is now over, with SM Cinema confirming that “Primetime” will open exclusively in Philippine theaters on September 30.
Directed by Lance Oppenheim and produced and distributed by A24, the film is set in 2006 and centers on Hansen as he attempts to create a landmark television moment, with Pattinson portraying the journalist.
Hansen became widely recognized as the host of “To Catch a Predator,” a series of “Dateline” segments on NBC that ran from 2004 to 2007. The program documented sting operations in which men were confronted after communicating online with individuals they believed were underage.
“Primetime” serves as Oppenheim’s first narrative feature film. His previous work includes the documentaries “Some Kind of Heaven” and “Spermworld,” along with the HBO documentary series “Ren Faire.”
Oppenheim is also working on “You Can See Everything,” a documentary co-directed with Nathan Fielder that focuses on former Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes.
Pattinson gained global recognition as Edward Cullen in the “Twilight” film series and later took on the role of Bruce Wayne/Batman in “The Batman.” His more recent credits include “Mickey 17,” “The Drama” and Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey.”
Joining Pattinson in the cast of “Primetime” are Merritt Wever, Skyler Gisondo, Phoebe Bridgers, Matthew Maher and Bokeem Woodbine.