Predators

Directed by David Osit
United States
2025
105 mins

Synopsis

This gripping film pulls back the curtain on the controversial, paedophile-hunting reality TV hit To Catch a Predator from the 2000s, and examines its complex cultural legacy. Sundance 2025.

To Catch a Predator was a hugely popular American reality show that ran from 2004 to 2007. The bold, ethically complex series aimed to catch child sex offenders using adult decoys, luring them to a “sting house” where host Chris Hansen attempted to interview them before police arrived to make arrests. Since its cancellation, numerous copycat shows have emerged on YouTube and TikTok. Director David Osit weaves together interviews with Hansen and former decoys – one of whom says they wouldn’t do it again “for ten million dollars” – in this engrossing but unsettling doc. Ultimately, Predators questions the appeal of such shows and examines the role that we, as viewers, play in their success.

Limited seats are available for patrons requiring access for wheelchairs, low vision and hearing loop. Please contact our ticketing team directly on 1300 733 733 or tickets@sff.org.au to complete your booking.

Like To Catch a Predator itself, Predators stealthily lures viewers in.
Daniel Fienberg, The Hollywood Reporter

Tickets

Thu 5 June 2025, 6:30pm
Event Cinemas George Street - Cinema 5
WheelchairAssisted Listening
Mon 9 June 2025, 6:30pm
Dendy Newtown - Cinema 1
WheelchairAssisted Listening
  • Program Strand
  • Year
    2025
  • Classification
    Unclassified 18+
  • Country
    USA
  • Language
    In English
  • Director
    David Osit
  • Producer
    Jamie Gonçalves, Kellen Quinn, David Osit
  • Cinematographer
    David Osit
  • Editor
    David Osit, Nicolás Nørgaard Staffolani
  • Genre
  • Premiere
    Australian Premiere
  • Company Credits
    Festival Contact: The Film Collaborative
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