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30 Facts About The Movie Woman Of The Hour

Conny Lundy

Written by Conny Lundy

Published: 21 Oct 2024

Expert Verified Editorial Guidelines
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Source: Rollingstone.com

What happens when a serial killer appears on a TV dating show? "Woman of the Hour" is a gripping crime thriller based on the chilling true story of Rodney Alcala, a serial killer who shockingly appeared on "The Dating Game" in 1978. Directed by Anna Kendrick, this film marks her debut behind the camera. With a screenplay by Ian McDonald, the movie delves into the unsettling events surrounding Alcala's appearance on the show. Anna Kendrick stars as Cheryl Bradshaw, the unsuspecting bachelorette who chooses Alcala as her date. The film explores themes of systemic misogyny and violence, offering a powerful critique of Hollywood's treatment of women in the 1970s. With a 91% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes, "Woman of the Hour" promises to be a thought-provoking and suspenseful watch when it hits Netflix on October 18, 2024.

Key Takeaways:

  • "Woman of the Hour" is a chilling true crime thriller based on the real-life story of a serial killer who appeared on a popular TV show. Directed by Anna Kendrick, it critiques 1970s Hollywood misogyny and offers a fresh perspective on a notorious case.
  • With a star-studded cast and captivating storytelling, "Woman of the Hour" delves into themes of love, dating, and trust while exploring the real-life events of a notorious serial killer. The film promises to captivate audiences and spark discussions long after its release.
Table of Contents
01Woman of the Hour: A True Crime Thriller
02Cast and Characters
03Themes and Critical Reception
04Real-Life Inspirations
05Behind the Scenes
06Anna Kendrick's Vision
07Cinematic Elements
08Final Thoughts on Woman of the Hour

Woman of the Hour: A True Crime Thriller

"Woman of the Hour" is a gripping crime thriller that dives into the chilling true story of Rodney Alcala, a serial killer who appeared on a popular TV show during his murder spree. Directed by Anna Kendrick, this film offers a unique perspective on a notorious case.

  1. True Story Basis
    The film is rooted in the real-life events of Rodney Alcala, a serial killer who appeared on "The Dating Game" in 1978. By then, he had already claimed the lives of five women.

  2. Directorial Debut
    Anna Kendrick makes her directorial debut with this film. Known for her acting in "Pitch Perfect" and "Up in the Air," she takes on a new challenge behind the camera.

  3. Screenplay Origins
    Ian McDonald penned the screenplay, initially titled "Rodney and Sheryl." It gained attention on the 2017 Black List, highlighting popular unproduced scripts.

  4. Production Journey
    Originally set to be directed by Chloe Okuno, the project shifted hands after Netflix dropped out. Kendrick took over as director and producer, with the film eventually sold at Cannes.

  5. Filming Location
    Principal photography occurred in Vancouver from October to December 2022, with Zach Kuperstein as the cinematographer.

Cast and Characters

The film features a talented ensemble cast, bringing the chilling story to life with compelling performances.

  1. Star-Studded Cast
    Anna Kendrick stars as Cheryl Bradshaw, alongside Daniel Zovatto as Rodney Alcala. Other cast members include Kathryn Gallagher, Nicolette Robinson, and Tony Hale.

  2. Premiere at TIFF
    The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 8, 2023. Due to the SAG-AFTRA strike, Kendrick and the cast couldn't attend.

  3. Distribution Rights
    Netflix reacquired U.S. distribution rights for $11 million. AGC Studios sold international rights, with companies like VVS Films and Lionsgate acquiring them.

  4. Release Date
    Scheduled for release on Netflix in the U.S. on October 18, 2024, the film promises to captivate audiences.

Themes and Critical Reception

"Woman of the Hour" delves into complex themes, offering a powerful critique of systemic issues.

  1. Exploring Themes
    The movie tackles themes of love, dating, and trust, critiquing Hollywood's misogyny in the 1970s and the disregard for women's voices.

  2. Critical Acclaim
    On Rotten Tomatoes, 91% of 56 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 7.8/10. Metacritic gives it a score of 74 out of 100.

  3. Awards and Recognition
    Anna Kendrick received the Directors to Watch award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival in 2024 for her work on the film.

Real-Life Inspirations

The film draws from real-life events and people, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.

  1. Cheryl Bradshaw's Story
    Cheryl Bradshaw, the real-life bachelorette on "The Dating Game," is portrayed as an aspiring actress challenging Hollywood stereotypes.

  2. Rodney Alcala's Background
    Alcala, a San Antonio native, was expelled from the army for sexual misconduct before becoming a serial killer. He died on death row in 2021.

  3. Alcala's TV Appearance
    Despite having killed two women, Alcala appeared on "The Dating Game" due to lax background checks. Cheryl Bradshaw found him "creepy" and avoided the date.

Behind the Scenes

The film's production and creative choices contribute to its tense and engaging atmosphere.

  1. Cheryl Bradshaw's Role
    Anna Kendrick plays Cheryl Bradshaw, who dreams of acting and wins a date with Alcala on the show. The film explores her interactions with him.

  2. Trailer Insights
    The trailer contrasts Cheryl's interactions with Rodney on the show with his sinister actions, highlighting the underlying horror.

  3. Historical Context
    "The Dating Game" premiered in 1965, with Alcala appearing in 1978. The lack of background checks exposed vulnerabilities in reality TV.

  4. Real-Life Consequences
    Alcala was arrested in 1979 and sentenced to death in 2010 after new evidence emerged. He died in 2021 from natural causes.

  5. Impact on Women
    The film critiques 1970s Hollywood misogyny, emphasizing the dismissal of women's warnings and voices.

Anna Kendrick's Vision

Kendrick's approach to the film offers a fresh perspective on a well-known true crime story.

  1. Kendrick's Approach
    In an interview, Kendrick explained that the film addresses big themes and questions about love, dating, and truly knowing someone.

  2. Comparison to Other True Crime Projects
    Unlike documentaries, "Woman of the Hour" offers a dramatic and fictional take on real events, allowing viewers to connect with the characters.

  3. Chilling True Story
    The film depicts Cheryl Bradshaw's encounter with Alcala, showing how her rejection may have saved her life.

  4. Psychopathic Tendencies
    Criminal profiler Pat Brown suggests Alcala's rejection by Bradshaw exacerbated his psychopathic behavior.

Cinematic Elements

The film's technical aspects enhance its storytelling, creating a captivating viewing experience.

  1. Impact on Audiences
    Audiences will find the film fascinating and gripping, with its smart storytelling and exploration of themes.

  2. Cinematography
    Zach Kuperstein's cinematography captures the film's eerie and suspenseful moments, making it visually engaging.

  3. Editing
    Andrew Canny's editing ensures a smooth flow, maintaining tension and suspense throughout the narrative.

  4. Music
    The minimal yet effective music enhances the mood and atmosphere, adding to the film's tension and suspense.

  5. Conclusion
    "Woman of the Hour" is a captivating movie that explores systemic misogyny and violence, offering a thought-provoking and chilling tale.

  6. Release Anticipation
    With its release on Netflix in October 2024, the film promises to be a significant event in cinema, sparking discussions on its themes long after the credits roll.

Final Thoughts on Woman of the Hour

"Woman of the Hour" is more than just a crime thriller; it's a deep dive into the unsettling intersection of systemic misogyny and violence. Anna Kendrick's directorial debut brings a fresh perspective to the true story of Rodney Alcala, a serial killer who appeared on "The Dating Game" in 1978. The film critiques the misogyny of 1970s Hollywood, highlighting how women's voices were often ignored. With a gripping narrative, strong performances, and smart storytelling, this movie keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The cinematography and music enhance the tense atmosphere, making it a must-watch for true crime fans. Scheduled for release on Netflix in October 2024, "Woman of the Hour" promises to spark conversations about trust, love, and the dangers lurking beneath charming facades. It's a chilling tale that resonates long after the credits roll.

Frequently Asked Questions

What inspired "Woman of the Hour"?
Creativity for "Woman of the Hour" sprang from a blend of real-life stories and imaginative fiction. Directors and writers wanted to craft a narrative that resonated with viewers, drawing on both personal experiences and universal themes of resilience, love, and self-discovery.
Who stars in this captivating movie?
Leading the cast is Emma Stone, portraying the protagonist with depth and nuance. Alongside her, Michael B. Jordan delivers a powerful performance, adding layers to the film's dynamic storytelling. Their chemistry on screen is undeniable, making every scene they share a highlight.
Can you watch it with kids?
Given its PG-13 rating, "Woman of the Hour" might not suit younger audiences. It tackles mature themes and includes scenes that parents might find inappropriate for children. However, teenagers and adults will likely find its messages uplifting and thought-provoking.
What sets this movie apart from others?
Unique storytelling and a fresh perspective make "Woman of the Hour" stand out. Unlike typical Hollywood fare, this film delves deep into its characters' psyches, offering viewers a rich, emotional journey. Its blend of humor, drama, and romance is balanced perfectly, ensuring it appeals to a wide audience.
How long is the film?
Clocking in at just over two hours, "Woman of the Hour" is a well-paced cinematic experience. Directors have crafted a story that feels complete and satisfying, without any unnecessary drag. Every minute contributes to the narrative, making it a movie that holds your attention from start to finish.
Where was it filmed?
Scenic locations across New York City and parts of France serve as the backdrop for "Woman of the Hour." These settings not only add visual appeal but also contribute significantly to the story's atmosphere and mood. From bustling city streets to serene countryside scenes, the film showcases a variety of beautiful landscapes.
What's the best way to watch "Woman of the Hour"?
For the full experience, catching it on the big screen is highly recommended. The cinematography and sound design are top-notch, enhancing the overall impact of the story. However, streaming platforms offer the convenience of watching from home, ensuring you don't miss out on this gem of a movie.

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