Anna Kendrick’s Chilling Debut: Woman of the Hour Set to Haunt Netflix This October

Anna Kendrick's directorial debut, *Woman of the Hour*, follows the chilling true story of a woman's encounter with serial killer Rodney Alcala on a dating show. Set to release on Netflix on October 18, the film has already garnered a 90% Rotten Tomatoes rating, promising to be a significant addition to the platform's true-crime collection.
SummaryNetflix has released a trailer for Woman of the Hour, a film directed by and starring Anna Kendrick in her directorial debut. The movie tells the real-life story of Cheryl Bradshaw, who encounters serial killer Rodney Alcala on a dating show. Premiering at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival, Netflix acquired the film’s U.S. distribution rights. The trailer hints at a sinister narrative, highlighting the dangers women face in the dating world. Set for release on October 18, Woman of the Hour is expected to be a significant addition to Netflix’s true-crime offerings, amid other projects like Monster Season 2. The film has received a 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, suggesting it may be a notable success on the platform.

Netflix Unveils Trailer for “Woman of the Hour”

Netflix has recently launched the trailer for Woman of the Hour, a film that marks Anna Kendrick’s directorial debut. Kendrick not only directs but also stars in this intriguing narrative based on true events. The movie explores the chilling story of a woman who encounters a serial killer on a dating show. The plot is inspired by the infamous Rodney Alcala, portrayed by Daniel Zovatto, who infamously participated in The Dating Game during his killing spree. Kendrick plays Cheryl Bradshaw, a contestant who finds herself dangerously involved with Rodney after their appearance on the show.

Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival

Woman of the Hour made its debut at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival, where Netflix acquired the U.S. distribution rights. Over a year since its premiere, the streaming giant has now released the film’s trailer. The trailer features two key scenes, both centered on a tense date between Cheryl and Rodney. In one scene, their conversation takes a turn for the worse, prompting Cheryl to discreetly signal a waitress to end the date.

In another scene, Rodney and Cheryl are seen in a parking lot post-date. Rodney’s request for Cheryl’s phone number reveals she gave him a fake number and struggles to recall it. As she walks away, Rodney ominously follows her, with the unsettling scene cutting to black. You can watch the trailer on Netflix.

Insights from the “Woman of the Hour” Trailer

The trailer, though limited to two scenes, hints at the film’s approach to its subject matter. It establishes a menacing tone in the interactions between Rodney and Cheryl, evoking a horror that may resonate deeply with viewers. Set against a backdrop reminiscent of the 2024 horror film Late Night with the Devil, Woman of the Hour appears to adopt a more realistic perspective on its true story.

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Kendrick seems to focus on universal fears that transcend the film’s period setting, highlighting the persistent dangers women face in the dating world. While the trailer is brief, it suggests that Kendrick is anchoring the film’s dramatic premise in authentic horror.

Our Perspective on the “Woman of the Hour” Trailer

The trailer for Woman of the Hour is effectively eerie, and with its release slated for October 18, it promises to arrive just in time for the Halloween season. It is one of several forthcoming serial killer-themed projects on Netflix, including the anticipated Monster Season 2, which will explore the Menendez brothers’ infamous murders.

Given the success of Monster and Netflix’s other true-crime offerings, Woman of the Hour could emerge as a significant hit for the platform. With a 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a leading performance by Kendrick, the film is poised to become a noteworthy addition to Netflix’s extensive collection. Whether it will stand out in the saturated market remains to be seen.

Source: Netflix

Woman of the Hour

  • Crime
  • Drama
  • Mystery
  • Thriller

Director
Anna Kendrick
Release Date
September 26, 2023
Studio(s)
AGC Studios, Vertigo Entertainment, BoulderLight Pictures
Distributor(s)
Netflix
Writers
Ian MacAllister McDonald
Cast
Anna Kendrick, Daniel Zovatto, Autumn Best, Andy Thompson, David Beairsto, Tighe Gill, Bonnie Hay, Thomas Strumpski, Nicolette Robinson, Kathryn Gallagher, Kelley Jakle, Tony Hale
Character(s)
Cheryl Bradshaw, Rodney Alcala, Amy, Bob, Rodney's Boss, Bachelor, Bartender, Laundromat Owner
Runtime
94 Minutes
Main Genre
Crime
Kai Nakamura
Kai Nakamura

Kai Nakamura, a striking 30-year-old journalist with a distinctive head of white hair, is a captivating presence in the world of movie journalism. Known for his eloquent prose and deep understanding of film, Kai has established himself as a trusted voice among movie enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.

Hailing from the vibrant city of San Francisco, Kai's passion for cinema was nurtured by his multicultural upbringing and frequent visits to the diverse array of film festivals held in the city. He pursued his love for storytelling at the University of California, Berkeley, where he graduated with a degree in Media Studies, sharpening his analytical skills and fostering a critical eye.

Kai’s work is revered for its thoughtful exploration of film as both art and cultural commentary. His blog, "Celluloid Reflections," offers readers an immersive experience, featuring everything from in-depth reviews of the latest releases to insightful essays on film history and its societal impacts. His unique perspective bridges the gap between mainstream and arthouse cinema, attracting a wide audience.

Outside of his writing, Kai is deeply connected to his cultural roots, frequently engaging in community projects that highlight Asian cinema and promote cross-cultural dialogue. An avid photographer, he captures the world through his lens, often drawing inspiration from the visual storytelling of the movies he loves.

Kai's personal life is as colorful as his professional one. He is an enthusiastic cook, often experimenting with fusion cuisines that reflect his heritage, and he enjoys hosting dinner parties where lively discussions about film abound. An advocate for mental health awareness, he volunteers with organizations dedicated to supporting creatives in overcoming industry pressures.

With his distinctive style and profound insight into the cinematic world, Kai Nakamura continues to enrich the film journalism landscape, inspiring others to see movies not just as entertainment, but as a lens into the human experience.

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