An aspiring actress crosses paths with a prolific serial killer in ’70s LA when they’re cast on an episode of “The Dating Game.” Based on a true story.
REVIEW:
Anna Kendrick’s directorial debut, “Woman of the Hour,” offers a gripping yet uneven exploration of a chilling true-crime story.
Set against the backdrop of the 1970s, the film delves into the unsettling tale of Rodney Alcala, the notorious “Dating Game” serial killer. Kendrick, who also stars as Cheryl Bradshaw, the unsuspecting bachelorette, brings a palpable tension to the screen. Her performance is both compelling and nuanced, capturing the vulnerability and strength of her character. However, her dual role as actor and director occasionally feels strained, with some scenes lacking the cohesion one might expect from a seasoned director.
Kendrick’s direction shines in moments of intense suspense. Her ability to build a foreboding atmosphere is commendable, particularly in scenes that highlight the eerie normalcy of Alcala’s charm. The film’s strongest points lie in its portrayal of the era’s casual misogyny and the chilling reality of Alcala’s crimes. The supporting cast, including standout performances by Nicolette Robinson and Autumn Best, adds depth to the narrative, making the audience feel the weight of the victims’ stories.
Despite its strengths, “Woman of the Hour” struggles with pacing. The film’s structure, which relies heavily on flashbacks and fragmented storytelling, can feel disjointed at times. This approach, while ambitious, sometimes detracts from the overall narrative flow, leaving viewers craving a more linear progression. Additionally, some character arcs feel underdeveloped, particularly those of the secondary characters, which could have provided a richer context to the main storyline.
The plot of “Woman of the Hour” is undeniably intriguing, drawing from real-life events that are both horrifying and fascinating. The film’s exploration of Alcala’s dual life as a charming contestant on a popular TV show and a ruthless killer is compelling. However, the screenplay occasionally falters in balancing these dualities, leading to moments where the tension wanes. The film’s climax, while intense, feels somewhat rushed, leaving certain plot threads unresolved.
“Woman of the Hour” is a commendable first effort from Anna Kendrick, showcasing her potential as a director. While the film is not without its flaws, it offers a fresh perspective on a well-trodden genre, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of true-crime thrillers. With more experience, Kendrick’s directorial voice is likely to become even more assured, promising exciting future projects.
Woman of the Hour gets a 3.5/5 or a B+. It’s streaming on Netflix.
CREDITS:
Directed by
Written by
Ian McDonald
Produced by
Starring
- Anna Kendrick
- Daniel Zovatto
- Nicolette Robinson
- Tony Hale
Cinematography
Edited by
Andrew Canny
Music by
- Dan Romer
- Mike Tuccillo
Production
companies
- AGC Studios
- Vertigo Entertainment
- BoulderLight Pictures
Distributed by
Release dates
- September 8, 2023(TIFF)
- October 18, 2024(United States)
Running time
94 minutes[1]
Country
United States
Language
English
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