Woman of the Hour

When True Crime Meets Dating Games: Anna Kendrick's Chilling Direction!

Did you know a serial killer once won a dating game? Delve into the spine-chilling yet bizarre world of Netflix's 'Woman of the Hour'!

Netflix’s latest thriller, ‘Woman of the Hour,’ directed by Anna Kendrick, takes a chilling dive into the bizarre true story of Rodney Alcala, the infamous serial killer who once appeared on the dating show ‘The Dating Game.’ The film encapsulates the wild juxtaposition of the innocent dating game format against the horrendous backdrop of Alcala’s gruesome crimes. While the film attempts to shed light on this disturbing part of history, it often sidesteps the harrowing depths of Alcala’s actual story, leaving audiences with an incomplete perspective on the life of a man whose charm masked a dark and murderous intent.

As we watch Alcala woo and charm his way through the game show, it’s hard not to cringe at the eerie disconnect between his bubbly persona and the atrocities he committed off-screen. The movie spotlights some real-life heroes such as Cheryl Bradshaw, who was portrayed as a contestant in the film but was almost wooed by a terrifying killer. The film raises questions about the naivety of the era and the bizarre turn of events that allowed such a dangerous man to appear on a platform designed for romance. With Kendrick at the helm, the film intertwines humor and horror, though at times it feels like it misses the mark, glossing over the psychological impact and horror of Alcala’s actions.

Interestingly, Alcala's story doesn't end with his game show appearance. The film brings viewers up to speed with his eventual arrest in 1979, revealing that his deadly escapades continued long after he left the stage. With a plethora of heartbreaking tragedies woven throughout, ‘Woman of the Hour’ mixes real-life encounters with a pinch of dramatic flair but leaves many wondering if it truly captures the essence of true crime storytelling. It is more of a rollercoaster of emotions rather than a definitive exploration which can leave true crime aficionados feeling a tad unsatisfied.

Just when you think the film couldn't get any stranger, viewers are bombarded with even more shocking elements, from the convoluted storytelling to Kendrick’s attempts at comedy in a narrative anchored in horror. While some are frustrated by the film's lack of coherence, others find enjoyment in it, holding onto its quirky flair amidst the serious subject matter. In conclusion, ‘Woman of the Hour’ does offer unique insights into a deeply unsettling aspect of media and serial crime but leaves many with an unquenchable thirst for a more comprehensive and unflinching examination.

For those curious, the real-life Cheryl Bradshaw, who appeared on ‘The Dating Game’, had no idea she was in the presence of a future serial killer; she ultimately chose another contestant over Alcala. The chilling aftermath is that Alcala was eventually convicted of multiple murders, but sadly, his lethal charm continues to baffle audiences. As you reflect on this bizarre tale, consider how entertainment can so easily be interwoven with the macabre, serving as a reminder that sometimes truth is stranger than fiction!