Unraveling Anna Kendrick's Directorial Debut, 'Woman of the Hour' (2024) on Netflix

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. In her directorial debut, Academy Award nominee Anna Kendrick stars in this pulse-pounding, stranger-than-fiction drama.

'Woman of the Hour' (2024) depicts the crimes of the very real 'Dating Game Killer', this serial killer actually won 'The Dating Game' and almost took another victim. This film showcases the terrifying perspective of the young woman who went on a date with him.

The content of this film is powerful enough to keep you engaged through those slower, more intimate moments. The film is split into two sections, one is Rodney Alcala's and one is Sheryl's. Each section showcases the lives of these two, very different individuals, leading up to their meeting on the show. We see Sheryl, a struggling actor, prepared to take on any role and Rodney who is at the height of his crime spree. Kendrick delivers a truly beautiful performance as Sheryl, her portrayal was realistic even in moments of high stress she kept the dialogue believable. Her role of Sheryl was likeable and sweet, I was rooting for Sheryl and I needed to see what happened to her.

This film isn't quite a 'crime drama' but instead a dramatic storytelling of true crime, this film touches on some incredibly disturbing themes but handles them with care. The opening scene was one of the most chilling for me, which set the tone perfectly for the rest of the feature, we were aware of Rodney's intentions and what he was capable of.

'Woman of the Hour' (2024) is not an easy watch, as I said, it touches on several disturbing notes. From themes of abuse, murder and manipulation this film is ultimately a love letter to all women who trusted somebody they shouldn't have. The film is a powerful statement on women's safety and vulnerability and was handled with grace and care.

'Woman of the Hour' (2024) is one of the better films Netflix has been involved with lately and I am pleased to say it exceeded my exceptions, it had hard moments but also soft moments. It had a balance of disturbing yet fun which made the overall watch entertaining but also thought provoking.

Probe Points

★★★★☆