Woman of the Hour, Anna Kendrick’s directorial debut, brings a chilling real-life story to the screen, dramatizing the true events surrounding the “Dating Game Killer.” Now streaming on Netflix, the film not only marks a significant milestone for Kendrick as a director but also assembles a talented cast to portray the key figures in this unsettling narrative. Here’s an in-depth look at the Woman of the Hour cast and the characters they bring to life.
Anna Kendrick as Sheryl Bradshaw
Leading the Woman of the Hour cast is Anna Kendrick herself, who plays Sheryl Bradshaw, a struggling actress who appears on The Dating Game in hopes of gaining exposure. Little does she know that one of the bachelors is Rodney Alcala, a serial killer. Kendrick’s portrayal captures the complexity of a woman trying to navigate a dangerous situation while seeking opportunity. Known for her roles in Pitch Perfect, Up in the Air, and A Simple Favor, Kendrick’s multifaceted performance adds depth to her character, portraying both vulnerability and resilience.
Daniel Zovatto as Rodney Alcala
Daniel Zovatto takes on the disturbing role of Rodney Alcala, the serial killer who became infamous as the “Dating Game Killer.” Zovatto, known for his performances in It Follows and Lady Bird, brings a chilling presence to the character, portraying Alcala’s unsettling charm and darkness. His role in Woman of the Hour adds a layer of complexity to the cast, showcasing his ability to embody a sinister character convincingly.
Tony Hale as Ed Burke
In a departure from his well-known comedic roles, Tony Hale portrays Ed Burke, the fictionalized host of The Dating Game. Best known for his work on Veep and Arrested Development, Hale adds a touch of dark humor and tension to the story, guiding viewers through the unsettling atmosphere of the show.
Nicolette Robinson as Laura
Nicolette Robinson, recognized for her roles in The Affair and One Night in Miami, plays Laura, a young woman who identifies Alcala as the man last seen with her murdered friend. Her role provides a critical perspective in the narrative, connecting the show’s events with Alcala’s gruesome crimes.
Autumn Best as Amy
Autumn Best plays Amy, a character based on Monique Hoyt, who managed to escape from Alcala’s clutches. Best, previously seen in 4400, captures the fear and bravery of a teenager fighting for her life, adding an element of suspense to the Woman of the Hour cast lineup.
Kathryn Gallagher as Charlie
Kathryn Gallagher portrays Charlie, a young woman who encounters Alcala while moving into a new apartment. Known for her performances in HBO Max’s Gossip Girl and Broadway’s Jagged Little Pill, Gallagher’s character highlights the danger posed by Alcala, reflecting how unsuspecting women could fall prey to his charm.
Kelley Jakle as Sarah
Kelley Jakle, famous for her role in Pitch Perfect, plays Sarah, one of Alcala’s first victims depicted in the film. Her character sets the tone for the story, showing Alcala’s early patterns of behavior that would escalate to more heinous crimes.
Pete Holmes as Terry
Pete Holmes, known for Crashing, takes on the role of Terry, Sheryl’s neighbor and fellow actor. His character adds a layer of lightheartedness to the cast, juxtaposing the dark themes explored throughout the film.
Supporting Cast: Additional Faces in Woman of the Hour
The film also features Matt Visser as Bachelor No. 1, whose humorous interaction with Kendrick’s character adds levity amidst the tension, and Jedidiah Goodacre as Bachelor No. 2, who tries to warn Sheryl about Rodney. Their presence rounds out the cast, showcasing diverse performances that enhance the film’s atmosphere.
Behind the Scenes: Kendrick’s Vision for the Cast
Kendrick, who initially only planned to star in the film, ultimately took on directing to bring a unique vision to the project. Her choices in casting relatively fresh faces along with established actors help immerse the audience in the 1970s setting and create an authentic feel. As a first-time director, she skillfully blends suspense with character-driven storytelling, ensuring that each cast member plays a pivotal role in unfolding the narrative.
Woman of the Hour: A Must-Watch for True Crime Enthusiasts
The Woman of the Hour cast delivers compelling performances that bring this true crime story to life. The film provides a unique take on serial killer narratives by emphasizing the victims’ experiences and portraying the chilling reality of Alcala’s crimes. Kendrick’s directorial choices, paired with the dynamic cast, make Woman of the Hour a thought-provoking watch for true crime and drama fans alike.
Now streaming on Netflix, Woman of the Hour invites viewers to revisit one of the most bizarre intersections of entertainment and crime in history through a talented ensemble cast.
Woman of the Hour at IMDB
