Netflix’s Woman of the Hour is a gripping psychological thriller that dives into the dark world of manipulation, deceit, and crime. Directed by Anna Kendrick, who also stars as the lead, Woman of the Hour presents a chilling narrative inspired by a true story. The plot revolves around a young woman caught in a life-threatening situation with a man hiding a terrifying secret.
What is the movie ‘Woman of the Hour’ about?
Woman of the Hour takes place in the 1970s and centers on the life of Cheryl Bradshaw, a struggling actress who unexpectedly becomes the bachelorette on a popular TV dating show. As the cameras roll and she tries to navigate awkward interviews with her suitors, Cheryl has no idea that one of her contestants harbors a deadly secret. Rodney Alcala, a seemingly charming and intelligent man, sits across from her, but unbeknownst to Cheryl and the audience, he is a dangerous serial killer.
The film builds tension with every scene, as viewers are aware of Rodney’s dark side, but the other characters remain in the dark. The story is carefully constructed, highlighting the way Alcala manipulated and deceived those around him, while also shedding light on how such horrors can lurk behind seemingly harmless personas.
Is the Movie Woman of the Hour Based on a True Story?
Yes, Woman of the Hour is based on the chilling true story of Rodney Alcala, also known as “The Dating Game Killer.” Alcala’s real-life appearance on the TV show The Dating Game in 1978, during which he was a contestant and actually won the date, is one of the most infamous moments in television history. Alcala was a convicted rapist and serial killer at the time of his appearance on the show, though his crimes had not yet been uncovered.
Alcala went on to murder numerous women and was later convicted of several killings. The film stays true to these real-life events while also dramatizing certain aspects of the narrative to build suspense and tension. Anna Kendrick’s portrayal of Cheryl Bradshaw mirrors the very real shock and terror that came after it was revealed who Rodney Alcala truly was.
Cheryl Bradshaw’s Life After The Dating Game
Following her appearance on The Dating Game, Cheryl Bradshaw was reportedly disturbed by Rodney Alcala’s behavior and refused to go on a date with him, a decision that might have saved her life. In real life, Bradshaw avoided falling into Alcala’s trap, though many other women weren’t as fortunate.
The film examines the aftermath of Bradshaw’s decision and how the revelation of Alcala’s true nature shocked the world. While Cheryl’s on-screen persona in the film represents her real-life wariness, the movie builds on the idea of her unknowingly facing danger in a way that grips the audience from start to finish.
Rodney Alcala – The Manipulative Killer
Rodney Alcala is one of the most notorious serial killers in American history, and Woman of the Hour portrays him as the master manipulator he was. In the movie, Alcala is depicted as a charming and intelligent man who hides his true nature behind a friendly exterior. This portrayal echoes the real-life Alcala, who not only appeared on The Dating Game but also managed to elude capture for years despite his growing list of victims.
The film highlights Alcala’s cunning nature and his ability to manipulate those around him, including the TV show’s producers and contestants. His eventual capture and conviction are explored, showing the contrast between his public persona and the gruesome reality of his crimes.
The True Horror Behind Woman of the Hour
What makes Woman of the Hour even more chilling is the fact that much of what is shown on screen happened in real life. Rodney Alcala used his charm to lure women into vulnerable situations, and the movie effectively captures this terrifying duality. The story is not just about the crimes Alcala committed but also about how easily he blended into society, making his eventual capture a disturbing reflection on the dangers of trust and appearances.
Woman of the Hour dives deep into the psychology of both Alcala and his victims, creating a narrative that is both terrifying and thought-provoking. The real-life events serve as a reminder of how manipulation and evil can hide in plain sight, making the film all the more harrowing.
