A new Netflix film is set to captivate audiences with the chilling true story of a serial killer who appeared on a TV dating show in the midst of his crimes. “Woman of the Hour,” directed by Anna Kendrick, delves into the crimes of Rodney Alcala, infamously known as the “Dating Game Killer.”
Rodney Alcala, a serial killer and sex offender, was found guilty of eight murders across New York, California, and Wyoming between 1971 and 1979. However, he is suspected of killing more than 100 women and girls. Posing as a fashion photographer, Alcala often targeted women by complimenting them and then asking to take pictures of them.
In 1978, Alcala appeared as a contestant on “The Dating Game,” a popular US TV show similar in format to the UK’s Blind Date. Despite his charming facade, Alcala’s dark intentions were revealed when he was later convicted of multiple murders, including the killing of a 12-year-old girl.
The film portrays Alcala’s encounters with his victims, leading up to the gruesome crimes he committed. It also explores his appearance on the dating show, shedding light on the chilling reality of how he managed to deceive others with his charismatic persona.
Anna Kendrick, known for her acting roles in films like “Pitch Perfect” and “Up in the Air,” took on the challenge of directing and starring in the film. Despite the dark subject matter, Kendrick’s approach to depicting violence in the movie was to show the beauty in contrast to the horror, without sanitizing the brutality.
Critics have praised Kendrick’s directorial debut, noting her talent for creating suspenseful scenes while maintaining a balance of wit and darkness. “Woman of the Hour” has been described as a powerful and compelling film that sheds light on the disturbing true story of Rodney Alcala, the “Dating Game Killer.”
