Robert Pattinson has never been one to play it safe, and his latest project is no exception. The actor, known for his eclectic choices, stars in Primetime, a gripping A24 thriller that has been making waves since its release. However, the film's theatrical run is already facing a significant cutback, with over 600 screens being pulled from its distribution.
According to box office data, Primetime has lost 625 theaters in its third weekend, dropping from 2,894 locations to 2,269 across North America. The film, which opened on September 25, has grossed approximately $41.5 million domestically so far. While that might sound impressive, its weekend earnings have taken a nosedive since the $18.8 million debut. The second weekend saw a 59% drop to $7.7 million, and the third weekend brought in just $4 million, a further 48% decline. This steep fall has prompted A24 to reduce the number of theaters showing the film.
The movie centers on Pattinson's portrayal of Chris Hansen, the investigative journalist who became a household name in the 2000s with the controversial series To Catch a Predator. Set in 2006, the film explores Hansen's early days, the show's production, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding its methods. It's a role that fits Pattinson's penchant for complex, morally ambiguous characters, and his performance has been widely praised.
Directed by Lance Oppenheim, Primetime boasts a stellar cast including Merritt Wever, Skyler Gisondo, Phoebe Bridgers, Matthew Maher, Bokeem Woodbine, Anna Faris, and Alex Winter. The film has been lauded for its unsettling tone and Pattinson's intense portrayal, though some critics have questioned whether it delves deep enough into its subject matter.
The box office performance of Primetime is reminiscent of other recent thrillers that have struggled to maintain audience interest after a strong opening. For instance, Alan Ritchson's 'Runner' faced a similar fate, losing a massive number of theaters in its second weekend. While Primetime hasn't suffered as drastic a cut, the trend is clear.
Despite the declining numbers, Primetime remains a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers. If you're looking for more films in this vein, check out our list of the most flawless psychological thrillers since 2010. And for those who appreciate Pattinson's unique approach to his craft, his performance in Primetime is a testament to his willingness to take risks.
As the film continues its theatrical run, it's unclear if A24 will further reduce its screen count. But for now, fans of Pattinson and gripping true-crime dramas should catch Primetime while they still can. The film's exploration of the dark side of entertainment is both timely and thought-provoking, making it a standout in this year's thriller lineup.
