As a seasoned viewer of true crime documentaries and a woman who has spent countless hours reflecting on the complexities of power, justice, and accountability, I found “Woman of the Hour” to be an exceptionally gripping and thought-provoking film. The story of Rodney Alcala, a serial killer who managed to slip through the cracks of our broken system, is one that resonates deeply with me, given the countless instances where we see such stories unfold in real life.
The hype and hook of Woman of the Hour is admittedly fascinating — an actual serial killer ends up as a contestant on the cheesy TV show The Dating Game, being one of the three prospective romantic options. He was even chosen by the woman on that episode of the show, a woman who could’ve easily become one of his next victims. It’s wild (and the actual footage of serial killer Rodney Alcala in that episode is uncomfortable and disturbing), sure, but Woman of the Hour very smartly goes beyond this historical tidbit. It’s a much more expansive film that’s less interested in just The Dating Game gimmick, and is more curious about how this murderer got away with what he did, and who he did it to.
The movie titled “Woman of the Hour” chronicles the chilling story of Rodney Alcala, portrayed by Daniel Zovatto with an unsettling charm, as he murders women over several years. Interspersed throughout is footage of his appearance on the game show The Dating Game. Anna Kendrick, who took over directing duties after the original director departed and funding was at risk, plays a struggling actress in 1978 who participates in The Dating Game for a temporary job. Kendrick’s character, representing the real-life Cheryl Bradshaw, serves to contrast Alcala’s encounters with other women in the film. The outcome is a suspenseful, captivating film that might stir feelings of indignation within you.
The Dating Game Killer
The movie starts by depicting one of Alcala’s numerous killings, which follow a common pattern. Frequently employing his photographic abilities along with insincere compliments and amorous advances, Alcala would attempt to persuade individuals that he is trustworthy enough to be alone with. In the initial scene, it’s a woman whose relationship ended during their road trip, who finds solace in Alcala’s company before she is attacked and eventually murdered. This scenario will recur multiple times throughout the movie, each time filled with tension and a foreboding sense of impending doom.
That dread infects The Dating Game segments that are skillfully edited into Rodney’s story, and builds as we realize that Cheryl may pick Rodney to go on a date with. It’s exacerbated by the realization of one audience member, Laura (Nicolette Robinson), who is sure she recognizes Alcala as the last man seen with her friend before she was found dead. Her boyfriend is passively dismissive, increasing Laura’s anxiety. She goes to the security office at ABC where the show is being filmed, desperate to notify somebody. Robinson gives a performance of pure frustration here and in a later scene at a police station, a great reflection of the film’s simmering fury.
Rodney Alcala and the Broken Society That Helped Him Kill
The Film of the Moment is a rightfully enraged production that questions why women’s testimonies are often disregarded, and explores how abuse persists. Rodney Alcala, a particularly fitting serial killer, serves as a chilling representation of the flawed systems and complicit individuals who enable such abuse. Ian McDonald conducted thorough research and made an astute choice in this regard.
In 1968, a warrant was issued for Alcala’s arrest due to his crime of raping and brutally beating an eight-year-old girl who later spent 32 days in a coma. This incident landed him on the FBI’s list of the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives. After his eventual capture, he was classified as a sex offender, but was freed after serving for 17 months. He was re-arrested less than two months later for assaulting another minor and served another two years in prison. Before committing at least one murder, he was arrested again, this time only for marijuana possession. In 1978, Alcala found employment at The Los Angeles Times and participated as a contestant on the television show The Dating Game.
What leads to this situation? It seems that the safeguards intended to shield individuals are surprisingly inadequate, as shown in Woman of the Hour. Directed by Kendrick with great finesse, it highlights the callous disregard or abject fear exhibited by certain people (while showcasing courage in others). The portrayal is subtle yet impactful; for instance, it subtly emphasizes how men intrude into women’s personal spaces (a hand on the waist, a touch of hair) and how individuals evade accountability, like a driver choosing to look away from an injured woman instead of stopping. It also depicts how people back out when sexual involvement is not involved, such as Pete Holmes’ character no longer wanting to assist Cheryl. Overall, it skillfully stirs up anger.
A Harrowing Conclusion
There’s a touch of humor sprinkled throughout, considering Kendrick’s knack for comedy and impeccable comedic delivery as an actress. This is particularly evident in the ‘The Dating Game’ segments, which serve as a refreshing contrast to the grim and distressing portrayal of Alcala’s crimes. Tony Hale delivers hilarious performances as a sleazy game show host embodying the essence of the 1970s, while Kendrick shines with her quick wit and charm, reminiscent of Howard Hawks and Barbara Stanwyck’s dynamic.
In the last part of the movie, there’s no laughter; instead, the tension escalates dramatically. The climax of the “The Dating Game” segment is unsettling, leading to a chilling, gruesome ending involving one of Alcala’s victims. Newcomer Autumn Best delivers an outstanding performance in her first feature film role. Her hypnotic acting at the movie’s end will make you grip your seat in anticipation. It’s a gripping finale indeed.
If you find any problems with the movie, it might be due to the fact that they seem overly determined to portray Kendrick’s character as a modern, empowered woman, or a “girl-boss.” The dating game segments appear to have been modified from the original show and serve more as a means to create this strong female character rather than advancing the storyline. Some scenes, like those where she humiliates male contestants and references scientists and philosophers, can come off as somewhat absurd, particularly since they seem out of sync with the 1978 setting. However, despite this incongruity, “Woman of the Hour” offers a unique and engaging perspective on the frequently explored genre of true crime involving serial killers, and serves as a reminder of Kendrick’s exceptional talent. You can stream “Woman of the Hour” on Netflix through the link provided below:
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2024-10-19 04:04