Anna Kendrick's 'Woman of the Hour' Explores Dark True Crime Tale

The Netflix film dramatizes the chilling story of a serial killer's appearance on a 1978 dating show, with some key fictional elements.

Anna Kendrick makes her directorial debut with 'Woman of the Hour,' focusing on Cheryl Bradshaw's encounter with serial killer Rodney Alcala on 'The Dating Game.'
The film, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2023, has become a hit on Netflix, reaching No. 2 on its Top 10 list.
While based on real events, the film introduces fictional characters like Laura, representing those who tried to warn about Alcala.
The character Amy is inspired by Monique Hoyt, a real-life survivor who played a crucial role in Alcala's eventual capture.
Kendrick and screenwriter Ian McDonald took creative liberties to enhance emotional impact, including altering Cheryl's post-show interaction with Alcala.