Hi movie friends! For those of you who love true crime stories and suspenseful thrillers, Netflix has a killer movie coming out – Woman of the Hour! The movie was released globally on Netflix on October 18, 2024, and is also streaming in India on Lionsgate Play. Anna Kendrick not only made her directorial debut with this movie, but also starred in the lead role and impressed. With actors like Daniel Zovatto, Tony Hale, Nicolette Robinson, and Atom Best, this movie is based on the real-life story of 1970s serial killer Rodney Alcala. Let’s review this thriller, discuss its analysis, and discuss the actors’ performances, shall we?
What’s the story?
Woman of the Hour is a true crime drama set in 1970s Los Angeles. It follows the story of a struggling actress named Sheryl Bradshaw (Anna Kendrick). Trying to break into Hollywood, Sheryl takes part in the TV show “The Dating Game” in 1978. There, her chosen bachelor, Rodney Alcala (Daniel Zovatto), appears as a charming photographer. But his dark secret is that he is a serial killer, a criminal who has already committed multiple murders!
The film follows Sheryl’s story as well as the lives of Rodney’s victims in the timelines of 1971, 1977, and 1979. For example, the film thrillingly shows how Rodney targets a young woman in Wyoming in 1977, a flight attendant in New York in 1971, and runaway teenager Amy (Autumn Best) in 1979. When Cheryl goes out for drinks with Rodney after a dating show, she notices his creepy behavior and escapes with her survival instincts. The film focuses more on Rodney’s crimes than on the perspective of the women who are the victims, and the sexism and safety issues they faced in the 1970s.
Analysis
Woman of the Hour is not a typical serial killer story – it’s a true crime drama told through a feminist lens. Anna Kendrick’s direction brings a fresh perspective to the film. Rather than glorifying the crimes of Rodney Alcala, it highlights the courage of the women victims, the sexism in society, and the gender dynamics. For example, the sexist questions asked of Cheryl on a dating show, and the police not taking Amy seriously – these scenes strongly highlight the challenges women faced in the 1970s.
While the film’s style of jumping between timelines is a bit confusing, it adds a dynamic layer to the story. It connects the lives of his victims, not just Rodney. The text at the end of the film, the real details about the Rodney Alcala case are shocking – he is estimated to be linked to between 8 and 130 murders, but many cases remain unsolved. This reality gives the film a heavy emotional impact.
While the film’s social commentary is excellent, it also has some flaws. The timeline jumps may feel disconnected to some, especially the lack of Rodney's backstory, which may be a bit of a disappointment for true crime fans. While the 1 hour and 35 minute runtime is compact, some character arcs feel rushed. However, Anna Kendrick's sensitive handling and female gaze make the film a unique true crime experience.
Performances of the actors
Anna Kendrick (Sheryl Bradshaw): Anna gives a brilliant performance as Sheryl. Her neurotic energy, smartness, and vulnerable moments come across strongly on screen. Her fear and alertness, especially in the drinks scene with Rodney, are superb. Her sensitive and intelligent handling as a director also gives the film soul.
Daniel Zovatto (Rodney Alcala): Daniel is charming and creepy as Rodney. He perfectly portrays the danger hidden behind his smile and confident behavior. His cool vibe in the dating show scene and his psychotic look in the photoshoot scene with Amy – both hit the nail on the head.
Atom Best (Amy): Atom Best gave a heart-wrenching performance as the runaway teenager Amy. Her fear, courage, and acting in the scenes where she escapes Rodney add emotional depth to the film.
Nicolette Robinson (Laura): Nicolette gave a short but impactful performance as Laura. Her frustration and scenes where she reports Rodney are very natural.
Tony Hale (Ed Burke): Tony Hale balances comedy and a slightly uncomfortable vibe well as the dating show host. His scenes provide light relief to the film.
Highlights
Female Gage: Telling the story of a serial killer from the perspective of the female victims is a unique touch to the film. It strongly highlights the sexism and safety issues of the 1970s.
Anna Kendrick Direction: As a first-time director, Anna balances suspense, emotion, and social commentary brilliantly.
Acting: Anna, Daniel, and Atom's best performances take the film to the next level.
Visuals: The cinematography and production design perfectly capture the vibe of 1970s Los Angeles.
Flaws
Timeline Jumps: The style of jumping between 1971, 1977, 1978, and 1979 is a bit confusing. Some characters feel underdeveloped.
Limited Depth: Rodney's lack of backstory may disappoint true crime fans.
Rushed Scenes: Some scenes feel rushed, and could have been more detailed with a little more time.
Ratings
My Rating: 8/10 – Anna Kendrick's direction, acting, and female-centric narrative make the film special, but the timeline jumps and limited depth are a bit of a letdown.
Final Talk
Woman of the Hour is not a typical serial killer story – it is a thrilling true crime drama that highlights the sexism and survival struggles of the 1970s, from a female perspective. Anna Kendrick excels as a director and actress, Danielle Zovatto wins hearts as the creepy killer, and Atom Best wins hearts as the courageous runaway. The text about the Rodney Alcala case at the end of the film is shocking, and it makes you feel how real this story is. Streaming now on Netflix, true crime and suspense fans don't miss this thriller this weekend!