Anna Kendrick has always been a remarkable performer. She is a quietly reliable actor because of her unique on-screen persona and capacity to find truthful moments even in the most faulty circumstances. She proves to be a powerful talent even behind the camera in Woman of the Hour, her directorial debut, which ups that promise even more.
The eerie opening of Woman of the Hour grabs the audience's attention. A young woman talks about her recent sad separation with photographer Rodney (Daniel Zovatto). As soon as he gets near, she realises she must immediately run to save her life. However, it is too late. It transitions to Cheryl Bradshaw (Kendrick herself, in a confident performance), a budding actress on the verge of abandoning her career after failing to make it through auditions where males harass her.
Cheryl accepts a friend's proposal to go on the 1978 television programme The Dating Game. Unbelievably, the same photographer shows up here as a competitor. He is the third bachelor. He is aware of when to stop and what to say. He is aware that his goal is to win the girl. This man is recognised by a woman in the audience (Nicolette Robinson's turn is very dramatic!). Everything is in place for something really terrible to happen.
Daniel Zovatto delivers a chilling performance as Rodney Alcala, portraying the killer’s charisma and menace with unnerving ease. Kendrick’s portrayal of Cheryl Bradshaw is equally compelling, highlighting the vulnerability and strength of a woman unwittingly placed in a predator’s path. The supporting cast also shines, adding depth to the narrative.
The film not only revisits a disturbing chapter in history but also critiques the culture of spectacle that often prioritizes entertainment over humanity. Kendrick uses the platform to question societal complicity and raise awareness about the darker side of fame and attention.
Early reviews have lauded Woman of the Hour for its gripping storytelling and insightful direction. Film critic Anne Thompson described the movie as "an arresting debut that unearths chilling truths about media and morality." Others have commended Kendrick’s courage in tackling such a complex subject with authenticity and sensitivity.
With Woman of the Hour, Anna Kendrick has established herself as a filmmaker to watch. The film’s haunting narrative and powerful performances leave a lasting impression, making it a must-watch for fans of true crime and compelling drama.
Woman of the Hour is not just a movie; it’s a chilling reminder of how truth can sometimes outdo fiction in its capacity to shock and unsettle.
