Woman of the Hour Anna Kendrick’s Gripping Look at the Dating Game Killer

Anna Kendrick makes her directorial debut with Woman of the Hour, a haunting exploration of Rodney Alcala, known as the “Dating Game Killer.” Alcala’s chilling crimes unfolded in the 1970s, culminating in his notorious appearance on the TV show in 1978, just two years before he was convicted of murdering a 12-year-old girl.

Rodney Alcala was a serial killer and sex offender whose actions led to the deaths of at least eight women and girls across New York, California, and Wyoming. Though convicted of these murders, it is believed he may have killed over 100 victims. Posing as a fashion photographer, he lured women with compliments before capturing their images and attacking them.

Alcala’s participation in The Dating Game in September 1978 showcased his charm and good looks, leading contestant Cheryl Bradshaw to select him for a date. However, after a backstage conversation, Bradshaw found him “creepy” and wisely opted out. This decision likely saved her life, as the episode featuring Alcala has since been lost.

Kendrick’s film opens with a tense scene in 1977, highlighting Alcala’s predatory behavior. The narrative shifts between the lives of various victims, focusing on their initial encounters with him. Kendrick portrays Bradshaw, adding a feminist angle by depicting her as assertive and willing to challenge the show’s conventions.

One of the film’s key narratives follows Monique Hoyt, who narrowly escaped Alcala at age 15. After being attacked, she cleverly convinced him she wanted a relationship, eventually fleeing at a gas station. Though she survived, Alcala was released shortly after, underscoring serious flaws in the justice system.

Transitioning from actress to director may surprise some, particularly those familiar with Kendrick’s lighter roles in films like Pitch Perfect. She has stated, “I can relate to being with someone deeply unsafe,” indicating her understanding of the film’s darker themes. Kendrick strives for a balance in depicting violence, focusing on the emotional weight rather than sensationalism.

Since its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, Woman of the Hour has received largely positive reviews. Critics praised Kendrick for her ability to create suspenseful, Hitchcockian scenes while maintaining a sensitive approach to violence.Katie Rife from IndieWire highlighted Kendrick’s skill in staging suspense alongside her signature wit.Benjamin Lee of The Guardian commended her as a strong first-time filmmaker capturing the film’s period authentically.However, Screen Rant’s Patrice Witherspoon noted some tonal inconsistencies and editing issues.

Woman of the Hour is a compelling look at Alcala’s crimes and the lives he devastated. Kendrick’s direction marks a significant evolution in her career, combining horror with feminist storytelling. This powerful narrative not only sheds light on a dark chapter in history but also emphasizes the importance of vigilance against danger.Through this film, audiences are invited to reflect on the resilience of women and the significance of their stories in the face of malevolence.