In her stunning directorial debut, Anna Kendrick crafts an intense and unforgettable film with Woman of the Hour, a 2023 true crime thriller that plunges audiences into one of the strangest, most chilling stories in reality TV history. Based on true events, the film tells the shocking story of serial killer Rodney Alcala and his unsettling appearance on The Dating Game, a popular 1970s television show. With a riveting screenplay by Ian McDonald, Woman of the Hour is both a suspenseful psychological thriller and a nuanced social commentary, deftly handled by Kendrick, who showcases an unexpected and impressive mastery behind the camera.
Woman of the Hour has been highly anticipated for its story and its director, Anna Kendrick, who makes a significant departure from her usual roles in lighthearted comedies and musicals. Here, Kendrick is not only the director but also the lead actress, diving into complex, often dark subject matter and demonstrating her impressive versatility. She delivers a highly engaging film that balances the haunting elements of true crime with thoughtful insights into the culture of television, fame, and trust.
Let’s dive into what makes Woman of the Hour a must-watch film, exploring its plot, themes, characters, and Kendrick’s achievement as a first-time director.
Plot Summary: A Real-Life Horror Story
Woman of the Hour centers on a real event from the 1970s: serial killer Rodney Alcala’s appearance on the dating show The Dating Game. Alcala, a convicted rapist and murderer who was already under investigation for multiple crimes, somehow managed to appear on the show as “Bachelor Number One,” showcasing himself as a charming and appealing contestant. Unaware of his dark past, the show’s producers—and the young bachelorette contestant, Cheryl Bradshaw—proceeded with the episode, leading to a disturbing set of interactions.
The film follows Cheryl Bradshaw (played by Kendrick), a young, ambitious woman eager for her moment in the spotlight. As she tries to navigate the pressures of being on a popular television show, she is unknowingly placed face-to-face with Alcala (played by Daniel Zovatto), who gives a chillingly believable performance as a predator hiding in plain sight. Kendrick and McDonald’s storytelling zeroes in on the uneasy tension that builds as Cheryl unknowingly flirts with danger, creating a palpable sense of dread throughout the film.
While we know the outcome of Alcala’s story, Woman of the Hour manages to keep audiences on the edge of their seats by focusing on Cheryl’s personal experience, the eerie calmness of Alcala’s charm, and the disturbing contrast between television entertainment and real-world horror.
Kendrick’s Direction: A Strong and Sophisticated Debut 🎥
One of the most remarkable aspects of Woman of the Hour is Anna Kendrick’s direction. For a first-time director, Kendrick demonstrates a keen eye for tension, pacing, and atmosphere, transforming the film into a highly immersive experience. Her background as an actress seems to serve her well in understanding the nuances of performance, as every character in the film, especially the main leads, brings a realistic depth to their roles.
Kendrick’s approach to directing Woman of the Hour is subtle and impactful. Instead of relying on excessive violence or gore, she skillfully builds suspense through careful framing and composition, using close-ups and lingering shots to capture the uncomfortable proximity between Cheryl and Alcala. Kendrick’s decision to focus on the quiet, unsettling moments rather than overt horror shows a remarkable restraint and sophistication, which is rare in a genre that often goes for sensationalism. By keeping the horror rooted in reality, Kendrick’s approach makes Alcala’s presence even more terrifying.
The way Kendrick tackles social commentary is also notable. She uses the setting of the 1970s—a time when trust in television was strong and societal views on women were shifting—to examine the exploitation and objectification of women in entertainment. Through her careful direction, Kendrick offers a critique on the showbiz industry, highlighting the troubling aspects of a society that would unknowingly showcase a serial killer on national television.
A Stellar Cast: Kendrick and Zovatto’s Powerhouse Performances
Anna Kendrick’s portrayal of Cheryl Bradshaw is another standout element of the film. Cheryl is both vulnerable and resilient, caught between the desire to be successful and the unsettling feeling that something isn’t quite right. Kendrick brings a mix of strength and relatability to the role, showing Cheryl as a woman trying to make it in a world where she is constantly underestimated and objectified. Her performance is understated but powerful, with moments of fear, doubt, and determination all conveyed in subtle expressions and body language.
Daniel Zovatto, who plays Rodney Alcala, delivers a chilling performance as the charming yet dangerous killer. Zovatto’s portrayal captures the dark charisma and disturbing calmness of Alcala, bringing a sense of realism and discomfort to every scene he appears in. His performance is both unnerving and mesmerizing, making Alcala a captivating villain whose presence lingers even when he’s off-screen. The tension between Cheryl and Alcala is heightened by the chemistry between Kendrick and Zovatto, adding layers of suspense that make their scenes together incredibly powerful.
Supporting performances by other cast members add richness to the story, with Kendrick’s direction allowing even smaller roles to have a meaningful impact. The producers, Cheryl’s friends, and the other contestants on The Dating Game all serve as reminders of the culture and expectations of the time, deepening the narrative’s focus on the societal implications of Alcala’s crimes.
Ian McDonald’s Script: A Smart, Taut Thriller
Ian McDonald’s script is another essential element of Woman of the Hour’s success. McDonald has crafted a screenplay that stays true to the factual basis of the story while weaving in psychological tension and commentary on fame and morality. The writing is sharp and insightful, moving beyond a simple recounting of events to explore the deeper implications of Alcala’s actions and the culture that allowed him to thrive.
One of the script’s greatest strengths is its focus on character. By exploring Cheryl’s internal conflict and desire for success alongside her growing discomfort with Alcala, McDonald brings emotional weight to the story. Cheryl becomes more than just a victim; she’s a fully realized character with hopes, fears, and ambitions. McDonald’s writing also delves into the motivations behind Alcala’s charm, painting a disturbing picture of a man who can manipulate those around him with ease.
Another noteworthy aspect of the screenplay is the way it captures the 1970s television culture. McDonald sheds light on the carelessness and lack of security on television sets at the time, questioning the moral responsibility of entertainment producers who prioritize ratings over safety. Through subtle dialogue and scenes that mirror real-life attitudes, McDonald’s script reminds us that while Alcala was a lone predator, the culture of the time unwittingly allowed his crimes to go unchecked.
Themes: Fame, Objectification, and True Crime’s Dark Side
Woman of the Hour delves into thought-provoking themes that elevate it beyond a standard thriller. By examining the intersections of fame, entertainment, and objectification, Kendrick and McDonald create a story that resonates on multiple levels. The film critiques a culture obsessed with fame and entertainment, one that unknowingly put a dangerous man on national television for the sake of ratings and spectacle.
The objectification of women, particularly in entertainment, is another prominent theme. Cheryl’s treatment on the show, both by the producers and by Alcala himself, highlights the persistent issues women faced in the 1970s—and continue to face in different forms today. The film serves as a reminder of how entertainment often disregards women’s safety and autonomy for the sake of profit and viewership.
Moreover, Woman of the Hour raises questions about the true crime genre itself. While true crime has become a cultural phenomenon, Kendrick’s film asks viewers to consider the ethics of consuming real-life horror stories as entertainment. By focusing on the impact of Alcala’s crimes on Cheryl, Woman of the Hour humanizes the victims and reminds audiences that behind every true crime story are real people who were deeply affected by unimaginable events.
Cinematography and Soundtrack: Crafting an Eerie 1970s Atmosphere
Visually, Woman of the Hour effectively captures the look and feel of the 1970s. The film uses a warm, vintage color palette that contrasts eerily with the dark subject matter, creating an atmosphere that is simultaneously nostalgic and unsettling. The cinematography emphasizes close-ups and prolonged shots, mirroring Cheryl’s discomfort as she interacts with Alcala. Kendrick and her cinematographer expertly play with light and shadow, using darkened backgrounds and shadows to heighten the tension.
The soundtrack also deserves praise, with a haunting score that builds suspense without overpowering the scenes. The music adds to the film’s atmosphere, blending subtle, ominous tones with 1970s pop culture sounds, reminding viewers of the era while heightening the sense of dread. The soundtrack complements the film’s pacing and supports Kendrick’s focus on creating a suspenseful, slow-burn thriller.
Final Verdict: A Thrilling, Thought-Provoking True Crime Story 🎬⭐️
Woman of the Hour is a triumphant directorial debut for Anna Kendrick, proving that she is not only a talented actress but also a skilled filmmaker with a unique vision. With a gripping story, powerful performances, and thought-provoking themes, Kendrick has crafted a thriller that transcends the conventions of the genre. McDonald’s screenplay, combined with Kendrick’s precise direction, makes Woman of the Hour a film that will stay with audiences long after the credits roll.
For fans of true crime and psychological thrillers, Woman of the Hour offers a suspenseful and unsettling experience that explores the dark side of fame and television culture. The film’s success lies not only in its compelling story but also in its ability to critique society’s fascination with crime and entertainment. Kendrick has taken a real-life horror story and turned it into a poignant film that resonates on both emotional and intellectual levels.
In Woman of the Hour, Kendrick shows us that even in a culture obsessed with spectacle, there are deeper stories that deserve to be told. Her film is a reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding in a world that too often prioritizes entertainment over humanity. If this is what Kendrick can accomplish in her first film as a director, we can only imagine what she has in store for the future.