In her directorial debut, Anna Kendrick takes on a formidable challenge by delving into the chilling story of Rodney Alcara, a notorious serial killer responsible for a horrifying murder spree in the 1970s. Kendrick’s film, titled “Woman of the Hour,” focuses on a pivotal moment in Alcara’s heinous activities – his appearance as a bachelor on an episode of ABC’s The Dating Game in 1978. This moment, captured on national television, showcases Alcara’s ability to blend seamlessly into society, concealing his sinister acts from a clueless public.
Using a non-linear narrative, Kendrick skillfully takes the audience on a journey through the different years of the 1970s, revealing Alcara’s modus operandi. As a photographer, Alcara entices unsuspecting women with promises of modeling contracts, capturing their images in various poses to establish his legitimacy. However, the true nature of his intent becomes apparent as he lures his victims to the desert, where he brutally ends their lives. Kendrick holds nothing back, presenting these scenes graphically and unflinchingly, leaving viewers disturbed and uncomfortable.
The film’s centerpiece revolves around Cheryl (played by Kendrick herself), an aspiring actress who finds herself entangled in Alcara’s web of manipulation and terror. Initially resistant to participating in The Dating Game, Cheryl reluctantly agrees under her agent’s encouragement to increase her exposure. Her interactions on the show, especially with the show’s host Ed Burke (played by Tony Hale), provide some of the most captivating and engaging moments in the film. Initially adopting a vapid persona, Cheryl later transitions into a more assertive and questioning stance, challenging the status quo and deviating from the typical mindless banter.
When Alcara, known on the show as Bachelor #3, charms his way into Cheryl’s favor, the tension escalates. The couple is awarded a prize – a trip to Carmel, as depicted in the film. However, it should be noted that this particular detail deviates from the actual facts. Alcara was Bachelor #1 and the prize was tennis lessons, not a romantic getaway. This artistic license taken by Kendrick adds an intriguing layer to the story, blurring the lines between reality and fiction.
Kendrick’s performance as Cheryl is nothing short of outstanding. Her energy and dynamic portrayal bring the character to life, immersing the audience in Cheryl’s journey. Daniel Zovatto, who portrays Alcara, is remarkably convincing in his resemblance to the real-life killer, embodying his disturbed nature with unsettling authenticity. Tony Hale’s portrayal of the enthusiastic host amplifies the discomfort, maintaining a pitch-perfect balance between charm and unease. While some details veer away from historical accuracy, these performances make the film a captivating and thought-provoking experience.
With “Woman of the Hour,” Kendrick proves her mettle as a director capable of crafting compelling narratives. The film’s tense and climactic scenes are a testament to Kendrick’s skill in staging and creating a palpable sense of fear. Amazingly, Kendrick achieves all of this within a mere 24 shooting days, showcasing her talent for efficient filmmaking. Her ability to balance the exploration of dark subject matter with engaging storytelling makes Kendrick a director to watch.
As the film sheds light on the disturbing fact that a vicious serial killer appeared on a popular television show, it raises intriguing questions about the selection process and responsibility of reality TV producers. The presence of a murderer as a contestant becomes a chilling indictment of the morals and ethics behind shows like The Bachelor. Kendrick’s portrayal challenges the public to scrutinize the inherent dangers and potential blind spots in the reality TV landscape.
“Woman of the Hour” is brought to life through the combined efforts of a dedicated team. The talented producers, including Kendrick herself, Roy Lee, Stephen Crawford, Andrew Deane, J.D. Lifshitz, and Raphael Margules, contribute to the film’s success. Their commitment to this project speaks to the compelling story and the impact it aims to achieve. With a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes, the film captivates audiences, prompting introspection and a chilling look into the darkest corners of the human psyche.
Anna Kendrick’s “Woman of the Hour” presents a distinctive and unnerving perspective on the story of Rodney Alcara. Through a non-linear narrative, captivating performances, and thought-provoking storytelling, Kendrick crafts a film that explores the disturbing reality of a serial killer’s appearance on a popular television show. As Kendrick rises as a directorial force to be reckoned with, “Woman of the Hour” serves as a chilling reminder of the depths of human depravity and the blurred lines between reality and fiction.