Anna Kendrick makes her directorial debut with Woman of the Hour, and it’s a strong one. This film yields a wealth of opportunities for Kendrick to flex her director’s muscles and demonstrate her vision, all while proving she can handle the demands of starring in the film as well. With a solid cast, sharp production design, and one very compelling story, Kendrick establishes herself as a filmmaker to be taken seriously.
The film centers around Sheryl (Kendrick), an aspiring actress living in Los Angeles in the 1970s. Eager for exposure, Sheryl can’t refuse the opportunity to be a contestant on the popular TV show The Dating Game. What she doesn’t know is that one of the suitors, Rodney Alcala (Daniel Zovatto), is a serial killer in the middle of a years-long killing spree. The film’s premise is so unique and unsettling that it’s hard to believe it’s based on true events.
Many serial killer movies focus on the perspective of the killer, but Woman of the Hour takes a different approach. While Zovatto is given numerous moments to showcase his ability to flip the switch from charming to unnerving, Kendrick’s film prioritizes the perspective of the women Rodney stalked and murdered. This fresh angle is a welcome change in true crime storytelling, refusing to glamorize the killer, or his heinous acts. Instead, the film places more of an emphasis on the lives of the victims, reminding viewers of the real human cost behind these crimes.
The time each victim gets on screen varies, but the film ensures that their experiences are given weight and attention. One standout to note is Autumn Best, who makes her feature film debut in a role that leaves a lasting impression. Her character is put through some truly intense situations — and Best handles them with a quiet strength and intelligence that make her performance particularly memorable. There’s a passivity in her portrayal, but it’s underpinned by an inner resilience that makes her scenes incredibly compelling.
The film’s period-piece elements are another highlight, allowing Kendrick to create some visually striking sets that transport viewers back to the 1970’s. Though much of the story revolves around the Dating Game set, Kendrick wisely expands the narrative beyond that environment. Flashbacks are used effectively to provide background on Rodney, building suspense and tension as we see what Sheryl is truly up against. The film deftly blends comedy, horror, and suspense, navigating through the chilling reality of Alcala’s terror without overindulging in graphic violence. Many of the more horrific elements are left implied, rather than shown — a tasteful approach that respects the victims while still managing to maintain a heightened tension.
Woman of the Hour is a gripping and chilling true crime drama with a fresh perspective. It is entertaining and engaging from start to finish, and a solid vehicle for Kendrick, both in front of and behind the camera. Fans of true crime will likely be drawn to the premise, but the film’s wild story and dynamic direction should also appeal to more casual moviegoers. With this debut, Kendrick proves she’s a filmmaker to watch.
Woman of the Hour will be on Netflix on October 13.
Rating: 4/5.
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