‘Woman Of The Hour’ Review – A Haunting Exploration Of Resilience Amidst Darkness

In Woman of the Hour, Anna Kendrick takes a striking leap into the director’s chair with a captivating and unsettling narrative that blends the chilling realities of true crime with a poignant exploration of female resilience. It’s her directorial debut, and she tackles the subject matter with a deft touch, steering clear of sensationalism while keeping you on the edge of your seat.

Set against the backdrop of the late 1970s, the film revolves around the notorious serial killer Rodney Alcala, portrayed with unsettling intensity by Daniel Zovatto. While many films might fixate on the gruesome details of his crimes, Kendrick smartly centers the story on Sheryl Bradshaw, a struggling actress played by Kendrick herself. Sheryl’s participation in the game show The Dating Game isn’t just a shot at fame; it serves as a lens through which we explore broader themes of misogyny and vulnerability.

From the outset, Kendrick captures the tension in the air with an assuredness that suggests she truly understands the weight of the story she’s telling. The cinematography, handled by Zach Kuperstein, is nothing short of remarkable. Each frame feels meticulously crafted, designed to accentuate the impending sense of dread. As Sheryl navigates her interactions, we feel the atmosphere thicken, transforming what should be light-hearted banter into something laden with unspoken fear.

Kendrick’s performance as Sheryl is a standout. She beautifully balances vulnerability with quiet strength, reflecting the complexities of a woman trying to be seen while also striving to survive. The way she captures those tight-lipped smiles is especially poignant; they are full of layered emotions—courtesy, frustration, and a fierce instinct for self-preservation. It’s a universal experience for many women, resonating deeply in moments where discomfort is deflected with a smile.

The film takes a non-linear approach, weaving together fragments of Sheryl’s experiences on the game show, glimpses into Alcala’s past, and chilling encounters with his victims. This structure brilliantly keeps the audience on their toes while building an atmosphere of palpable anxiety. Even if you know the grim history of Alcala, Kendrick ensures the emotional weight of the story penetrates, making it impossible to remain detached. Each flashback serves as a haunting reminder of the lives lost, adding depth to the narrative without glorifying the violence.

One of the most compelling choices made by Kendrick and screenwriter Ian McDonald is their refusal to humanize Alcala in any way. Instead, he is depicted as a predatory figure, with Zovatto capturing the chilling essence of a man who exploits the weaknesses of others. The moments when he hangs in the shadows, appearing innocuous yet radiating menace, are constructed with an almost suffocating tension that keeps the audience on edge.

Kendrick skillfully highlights the systemic failures that allow predators to thrive. Sheryl’s desperate need to be seen becomes a poignant commentary on how women’s voices are often silenced or dismissed. The moments when she is truly listened to—by other women—contrast starkly with the men around her, who continually let her down. This infuriating dynamic is captured beautifully, making the audience feel Sheryl’s pain and anger.

Rather than simply detailing the atrocities committed by Alcala, the film seeks to pay tribute to the women whose lives he irrevocably changed. Each character, whether a victim or a survivor, is depicted with rich complexity and sensitivity. Kendrick and McDonald make it clear that these women are not just background figures in a grim story; they are vital to the narrative, and their resilience and strength resonate powerfully, even in the face of darkness.

One of the film’s most powerful aspects is its ability to strip away the glamour often associated with Hollywood. Rather than focusing on the glitzy facade of the entertainment industry, Woman of the Hour reveals the uncomfortable truths that lie beneath. Sheryl’s moment of triumph on the game show is not a victory in the traditional sense but a bittersweet reminder of the survival instinct that women must cultivate in a world that often overlooks their fears.

In a world where struggles against misogyny and violence persist, the realities faced by women today echo those of previous generations. The systemic issues that have plagued women for decades remain alarmingly relevant, revealing a troubling continuity in societal attitudes and behaviors. From everyday discrimination to the chilling prevalence of violence, these challenges highlight the urgent need for change. Kendrick’s film powerfully addresses these very issues, confronting the uncomfortable truths that allow such injustices to endure. As women navigate a landscape fraught with danger and inequality, this film serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing fight for equity and safety, demanding our collective attention and action.

Woman of the Hour leaves viewers with a deep sense of unease and ignites simmering anger. Kendrick has crafted a film that demands our attention, highlighting the critical importance of listening to women’s voices and validating their experiences. It goes beyond the story of a serial killer; it serves as a reflection of society’s complicity in enabling such horrors to continue.

I’ve been saying that 2024 is a year of debuts, and Woman of the Hour is yet another compelling example of this trend. Anna Kendrick has created a powerful and thought-provoking film that tackles pressing societal issues head-on. It goes beyond being a conventional thriller, emerging as a stark commentary on the systemic injustices women face every day. It stays with you, igniting conversations and leaving you pondering its themes long after you’ve watched it.

Woman of the Hour is currently available to stream exclusively on Netflix.