Anna Kendrick's 'Woman of the Hour' Debut Explores Real-Life Horror

The Netflix thriller recounts the chilling true story of serial killer Rodney Alcala's appearance on 'The Dating Game' in 1978.

Anna Kendrick makes her directorial debut with 'Woman of the Hour,' a film based on the true story of serial killer Rodney Alcala.
The film focuses on the women targeted by Alcala, emphasizing their stories over the killer's, in an effort to avoid glamorizing his crimes.
Kendrick stars as Cheryl Bradshaw, the contestant who unknowingly chose Alcala on 'The Dating Game,' and she also directed the film after pitching herself for the role.
Critics praise the film for its tense atmosphere and its exploration of the pervasive misogyny of the 1970s, though some feel it lacks a strong narrative anchor.
The film is noted for its respectful handling of sensitive material, avoiding sensationalism while highlighting the systemic failures that allowed Alcala's crimes to continue.