Woman of the Hour*: A Stylish Yet Shallow Take on a True Crime Story

Netflix’s *Woman of the Hour*: A Dry Take on a Wild True Story

In Anna Kendrick’s directorial debut, *Woman of the Hour*, the actress stars as Cheryl Bradshaw, an aspiring performer navigating a tough Hollywood landscape in 1978. The film, based on the true story of serial killer Rodney Alcala, intertwines Cheryl’s experience on *The Dating Game* with flashbacks of Alcala’s horrific crimes.

Kendrick portrays Cheryl as a determined but frustrated actress, struggling against a sexist industry that values appearance over talent. After many failed auditions, she reluctantly agrees to appear on *The Dating Game*, where she encounters Alcala, played by Daniel Zovatto. Known for his charm and intelligence, Alcala’s sinister side lurks beneath the surface, making for a chilling juxtaposition with Cheryl’s story.

While Kendrick’s direction is visually appealing and thoughtfully edited, the film ultimately feels disjointed. Its structure—alternating between Cheryl's struggles and Alcala’s crimes—creates a repetitive rhythm that drains the tension. Instead of delving deep into either character, the film offers a surface-level examination of their worlds, missing opportunities for deeper exploration.

Despite the interesting premise and strong performances, *Woman of the Hour* comes off as more academic than engaging, leaving viewers with little new insight into the true crime genre. In an era saturated with true crime narratives, the film's careful approach may attract attention but lacks the depth to resonate meaningfully.