Robert Pattinson‘s role in Primetime is a departure from many of his previous performances. The Twilight Saga actor has offered a glimpse of how he prepared to portray Chris Hansen for A24’s recent release.
A newly released camera test shows Pattinson practicing Hansen’s distinctive voice and mannerisms, offering a glimpse of the film’s unsettling tone. Pattinson moves through several setups while rehearsing phrases associated with Hansen’s delivery. He practices saying “predators” and “the house,” along with individual words such as “down” and “and.” The exercises reveal his efforts to reproduce Hansen’s measured speech and intense presence.
The clip ends with Pattinson staring ahead, wearing an expression similar to the one on the film’s poster. His portrayal contrasts sharply with his natural English accent.
Directed by Lance Oppenheim, Primetime follows the world behind To Catch a Predator, the television sting series hosted by Chris Hansen. The film explores the show’s production and the ethical questions surrounding its controversial sting operations.
Voice exercises offer a glimpse into Pattinson’s preparation
Pattinson’s preparation involved more than simply learning Hansen’s voice. The camera test shows him working through the character’s physical presence and unsettling mannerisms, which play a major role in the film.
Oppenheim previously told Entertainment Weekly that he and screenwriter Ajon Singh spent a late night discussing the script with Pattinson, who was already attached as a producer. The director said they brought Four Lokos and gummies to the meeting to help communicate the atmosphere they wanted to capture.
Pattinson eventually committed to the project alongside The Drama, despite Oppenheim initially worrying that the actor might pass on the film.
Primetime marks Oppenheim’s first narrative feature after documentary projects including Ren Faire and Spermworld. The film uses an unconventional visual style to blur the line between fiction and reality, echoing the unsettling nature of the original program.
The film also stars Skyler Gisondo, Merritt Wever, Phoebe Bridgers, Matthew Maher, Bokeem Woodbine, Anna Faris, and Alex Winter.
Primetime is now playing in theaters.
Originally reported on ComingSoon.net.
