Introduction
Woman of the Hour (2024) is Anna Kendrick’s much-anticipated directorial debut, and it stands as a gripping crime thriller that has already left a lasting impression on its viewers. Set against the backdrop of the 1970s, the film follows the real-life horror story of Rodney Alcala, a serial killer who shockingly appeared on a popular TV show, The Dating Game, while evading the authorities. Kendrick, known for her charming on-screen presence, flips expectations and delivers a taut, suspenseful narrative that highlights the casual misogyny embedded in the entertainment industry and society at large. Let’s break down the film’s elements, from plot and characters to its visual style and thematic depth.
Plot Overview
The film opens with a chilling sequence where a young woman named Sarah (Kelley Jakle) is attacked after confiding in a seemingly kind stranger. This unsettling moment sets the tone for what is a harrowing story based on real events. The narrative then follows aspiring actress Sheryl (played by Kendrick), whose career is at a standstill as she endures a series of humiliating auditions and inappropriate advances. Pressured by her agent, Sheryl reluctantly agrees to appear on The Dating Game, a popular 1970s reality TV show where bachelors compete for a date with a female contestant.
In an eerie twist, one of the bachelors competing for Sheryl’s attention is Rodney Alcala (Daniel Zovatto), a charming but deeply sinister man who has already been responsible for the deaths of several women. As the film flips between Alcala’s gruesome acts and Sheryl’s life on the game show, tension builds to a horrifying climax. Kendrick carefully layers the narrative, balancing the real-world terror of Alcala’s crimes with a sharp critique of how women were—and still are—viewed in media.
Character Analysis
Sheryl Bradshaw is a compelling lead character. Kendrick portrays her with subtlety, navigating between the façade of charm required by her profession and the inner turmoil of constantly being objectified and dismissed. Her experiences represent the universal struggles faced by women in the entertainment industry, making her a relatable and tragic figure. The character’s arc is not just about her dealing with Alcala, but also about reclaiming her agency in a world that constantly strips it away.
Rodney Alcala, as portrayed by Daniel Zovatto, is terrifying in his ability to mask his true nature. The actor skillfully switches between charming and predatory, making it easy to see how Alcala evaded detection for so long. His portrayal forces the audience to confront the unsettling truth that many predators hide in plain sight, using charisma and social norms to manipulate those around them.
The supporting cast, including Nicolette Robinson and Autumn Best, bring depth to even the smallest roles, ensuring that every woman Alcala encounters feels like a fully realized character rather than a mere victim. Each interaction with Alcala leaves an indelible mark on the narrative, adding layers of dread to the film’s atmosphere.
Visual Style and Cinematography
Visually, Woman of the Hour captures the essence of the 1970s with remarkable accuracy. The cinematography by Zack Galler uses a muted, vintage color palette that evokes the era’s gritty texture while giving the film an almost documentary feel. The use of handheld camera shots in Alcala’s scenes adds to the unsettling atmosphere, making the viewer feel as if they’re intruding on something private and horrifying.
Kendrick’s direction shows a surprising level of restraint, opting to keep the most brutal moments of violence off-screen. This choice enhances the psychological horror, as the audience is left to imagine the full extent of Alcala’s cruelty. The decision to focus on the emotional impact of the violence, rather than the graphic details, heightens the film’s tension.
Themes and Messages
Woman of the Hour is more than just a crime thriller. It delves into the complex themes of misogyny, media manipulation, and the societal tendency to ignore the plight of women, especially when it comes to issues of violence and abuse. Kendrick’s film shines a light on how women are objectified—both in the entertainment industry and in everyday life—and the devastating consequences of that objectification.
The film also explores the disturbing normalization of serial killers in popular culture. Alcala’s appearance on The Dating Game is a stark reminder of how easily predators can blend into society and exploit platforms that should be harmless. Kendrick seems to ask the audience to question the way we consume true crime stories, especially those that sensationalize violence against women.
Comparison with Similar Films
Woman of the Hour bears some similarities to other recent films that examine serial killers from a more nuanced, critical perspective. In tone and execution, it can be compared to David Fincher’s Zodiac (2007), which also focused more on the victims and the investigative process than on the killer’s gruesome acts. Kendrick’s film, however, places a sharper emphasis on the experience of women, making it stand out in the true crime genre.
Another apt comparison is with Promising Young Woman (2020), directed by Emerald Fennell, which similarly examines the effects of misogyny and violence on women in a patriarchal society. While Promising Young Woman has a more overtly stylized approach, both films use their narratives to critique how society enables and excuses male violence.
Direction and Pacing
For her first time in the director’s chair, Anna Kendrick shows impressive skill in pacing and tone. The film never lags, even as it shifts between different timelines and locations. Kendrick’s ability to build tension is particularly notable during the scenes on The Dating Game. Even though the audience knows what Alcala is capable of, the interactions between him and Sheryl are fraught with unease, making the viewer feel as though they’re watching a ticking time bomb.
Kendrick also makes effective use of silence and music. The score, with its sparse use of haunting cello notes, amplifies the film’s emotional weight, while moments of silence allow the actors’ performances to shine through without distraction.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth Watching?
Absolutely. Woman of the Hour is a powerful, thought-provoking film that goes beyond the typical true crime narrative. It’s a searing critique of how society views and treats women, wrapped in a tense, well-executed thriller. Anna Kendrick proves herself not only as a capable director but as a storyteller with a clear, insightful vision. This film is not just recommended—it’s essential viewing for anyone interested in both the true crime genre and films that tackle social issues.
Don’t miss Woman of the Hour on Netflix. For a deeper dive into the case of Rodney Alcala, and to find out where you can watch this gripping thriller, check out our guide here. Looking for more crime thrillers? Explore top-rated films here.
Watch Woman of the Hour | Official Trailer | Netflix:
