Neil Pond
Updated on: October 12, 2024 1:38 pm GMT
In a chilling blend of reality and drama, Anna Kendrick’s directorial debut, *Woman of the Hour*, draws audiences into the grim world of a serial killer through the lens of a beloved 1970s game show. Starring Kendrick herself, the film is set to premiere on Netflix on October 18, following its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival.
A Thrilling True-Crime Story
*Woman of the Hour* centers on Cheryl Bradshaw, portrayed by Kendrick, who unwittingly finds herself in the company of a murderer. The plot unfolds during an episode of *The Dating Game*, where Bradshaw wins a date with Rodney Alcala, played by Daniel Zovatto. What she doesn’t know is that Alcala is in the midst of a killing spree that would go on to claim the lives of at least eight young women, among other heinous acts.
Kendrick leads a reputable cast, including Tony Hale from *Veep* and Nicolette Robinson from *One Night in Miami*. The film is based on a script by Ian McDonald, which gained recognition on the Black List in 2017, highlighting its promise even before being brought to life on screen.
A Unique Perspective on the Genre
Critics have noted that *Woman of the Hour* strives to subvert typical true-crime narratives by focusing not just on the killer, but also on the voices of the victims. In her review for *The Hollywood Reporter*, Lovia Gyarkye remarked, “Kendrick builds on the work she started in *Alice, Darling*—but now she is also behind the camera for this unnerving dramatization of serial killer Rodney Alcala’s appearance on a dating game show while in the midst of his murder spree.”
This unique storytelling approach aims to provide a broader context, giving precedence to the experiences of the victims rather than merely sensationalizing the criminal acts.
Behind the Scenes
*Woman of the Hour* marks a significant step for Kendrick as she transitions from actress to director. She noted her concerns around directing, stating, “I don’t date much — I don’t date at all, actually. My agent said it would get me seen,” reflecting the genuine fears and hopes of her character encountering someone seemingly charming but with sinister motivations.
The film is produced by an experienced team, including Roy Lee, Miri Yoon, J.D. Lifshitz, and Raphael Margules. The executive producing team further strengthens the project with notable talents.
- Anna Kendrick (also starring)
- Ian McDonald (screenwriter)
- Joe Penna
- Matthew Helderman
- Stuart Ford
What to Expect
As anticipation builds for its release, audiences can look forward to several gripping elements in *Woman of the Hour*:
– A compelling narrative based on real events.
– Strong performances from a talented cast.
– Insightful commentary on the nature of fame and danger.
– A blend of psychological tension and emotional depth, characteristic of Kendrick’s work.
The film has been highly anticipated within the film community, especially following its screening at TIFF, where it received critical acclaim for its direction and storytelling.
Release and Impact
*Woman of the Hour* is set to arrive on Netflix just in time for Halloween, aiming to draw in audiences who enjoy both real-life thrillers and character-driven drama. The film not only aims to entertain but also to provoke thought on the intersection of fame, vulnerability, and the hidden dangers of modern dating.
This film is particularly timely in light of society’s ongoing fascination with true crime narratives, offering viewers a mix of thrills and a sobering reminder of the real-life implications behind such stories.
Conclusion
Anna Kendrick’s *Woman of the Hour* is not just another crime movie. It mixes real-life events with deep thoughts about how people feel, focusing on the scary stories of those affected by one of America’s most famous serial killers. With a great cast and Kendrick’s special touch as a director, the film is set to make a big impression when it comes out on Netflix on October 18. Viewers can look forward to a spooky yet interesting movie that makes you think about human relationships and the darker sides of being famous.
