Woman of the Hour: Anna Kendrick’s Directorial Debut Revisits the Chilling Story of the Dating Game Killer
Netflix’s latest release, Woman of the Hour, has already generated considerable buzz as Anna Kendrick steps behind the camera for her directorial debut, in addition to taking on a lead role. The film is based on the unsettling true story of Rodney Alcala, a notorious serial killer who became infamously known as the “Dating Game Killer” after appearing on a 1978 episode of The Dating Game—a U.S. television show where contestants would seek dates in a format reminiscent of a modern reality show. This chilling tale adds a dark twist to the world of dating shows and explores the lurking dangers of romantic encounters with strangers.
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A Twisted Game Show Appearance
The story follows Cheryl Bradshaw, played by Kendrick, who participates in The Dating Game in hopes of gaining exposure for her struggling acting career. Little does she know, Bachelor #3—Rodney Alcala, portrayed by Daniel Zovatto—is in the midst of a killing spree that spans nearly a decade. Although Alcala was selected as the winning bachelor, Bradshaw’s instincts told her something was off. After a brief conversation backstage, she opted not to go on the date, a decision that may have saved her life.
Alcala’s criminal history reveals a pattern of using charm and deception to lure his victims. At the time of his appearance on the show, he had already been linked to a string of brutal murders, though his background remained unchecked by producers, leading to Alcala’s alarming participation. Kendrick’s film captures this bizarre and chilling moment in American television history while delving deeper into the lives of his victims, portraying them with compassion and sensitivity.
An Unconventional Approach to True Crime
Kendrick’s vision for Woman of the Hour is to take a different approach from conventional true crime storytelling. Rather than glorifying Alcala’s murders, the film emphasizes the experiences of his victims, showcasing their resilience and humanity. “The film doesn’t seek to sensationalize the violence; it aims to remind us of the real people whose lives were cut short,” Kendrick explains. This nuanced approach helps set the film apart in a genre often criticized for fetishizing the gore and grisliness of serial killer stories.
Woman of the Hour refrains from showing explicit scenes of violence. Instead, it captures the moments leading up to Alcala’s encounters with his victims, underscoring the dark tension and suspense that loomed in these fateful situations. The film’s artistic portrayal allows viewers to feel the underlying terror without being exposed to excessive brutality.
Kendrick’s Directorial Ambitions
While Kendrick is primarily known for her roles in films like Pitch Perfect and Up in the Air, her foray into directing marks a bold departure from her usual repertoire. Initially attached to star in the movie, she became so invested in the overall story that she decided to direct it. “I realized that I love the character, but I love the movie as a whole significantly more than I love the character,” Kendrick says. Her experience of working in the film industry, coupled with her understanding of navigating relationships that feel potentially unsafe, fueled her passion for the project.
Screenwriter Ian McDonald collaborated closely with Kendrick to create a film that focuses on the dangers of vulnerability, particularly the kind involved in dating. “Every time you go on a date with someone you don’t know, you’re making yourself vulnerable. That’s the case every time you let your guard down,” McDonald adds.
A Stellar Cast and Historical Reimagining
In addition to Kendrick and Zovatto, the film’s cast features familiar faces like Tony Hale, who brings levity as a fictionalized game show host, and Nicolette Robinson, who portrays a woman in the audience with a connection to one of Alcala’s victims. The supporting characters help paint a vivid picture of the 1970s, where Alcala’s seemingly harmless charm concealed his violent tendencies.
Kendrick was particularly keen on casting actors who would authentically fit into the film’s 1970s setting. “I love that the movie might be introducing some of the actors to a whole new audience,” she said. By incorporating lesser-known faces, Kendrick enriches the film with a sense of discovery that mirrors the surprising nature of the story itself.
Critical Reception
Woman of the Hour has garnered positive reviews, with critics commending Kendrick’s ability to balance Hitchcockian suspense with emotional depth. IndieWire praised Kendrick for her talent in staging tense scenes, while The Guardian lauded her convincing portrayal of the era. However, some critics pointed out the tonal inconsistencies and editing challenges that occasionally detract from the movie’s impact.
Despite these minor flaws, the film successfully presents a thoughtful narrative about a true crime that left a lasting mark on history. Kendrick’s directorial debut signals her capability to handle complex stories with care, making Woman of the Hour a powerful addition to the true crime genre.
Woman of the Hour is Now Streaming
Woman of the Hour is now available on Netflix, offering viewers a compelling look into the mind of a predator and the lives he affected. Through careful storytelling and empathetic direction, Kendrick sheds light on the consequences of unchecked evil in even the most public of settings, revealing the dangers that can lurk just beneath the surface.