Anna Kendrick’s directorial debut and starring role in “Woman of the Hour” is set to premiere on Netflix on October 18. The film delves into the chilling true story of serial killer and sex offender Rodney Alcala, who left a trail of death in the 1970s while also appearing as a contestant on the popular game show “The Dating Game.”
Kendrick portrays Cheryl Bradshaw, the leading lady on a 1978 episode of “The Dating Game” where Alcala was one of the contestants and ultimately won. However, Bradshaw decided to cancel their date after feeling uneasy about Alcala.
In 1979, Alcala was arrested and convicted of five murders between 1977-1979, with potential links to many more victims. He was sentenced to death in California for the rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl named Robin Samsoe. Prior to his appearance on “The Dating Game,” Alcala had a history of criminal acts, including serving time for child molestation and being on the FBI’s Most Wanted list for assaulting an eight-year-old.
Despite being sentenced to death multiple times, Alcala passed away in prison in 2021 at the age of 77.
The movie “Woman of the Hour” was penned by Ian McDonald and produced by Miri Yoon, Roy Lee, Raphael Margules, and J.D. Lifshitz. The cast includes Anna Kendrick as Cheryl Bradshaw, Daniel Zovatto as Rodney Alcala, Tony Hale as game show host Ed Burke, Kathryn Gallagher as a victim inspired by Cornelia Crilley, Kelley Jakle as a victim inspired by Christine Ruth Thornton, Autumn Best as a fictional survivor of Alcala, Jedidiah Goodacre and Matt Visser as contestants on “The Dating Game,” Pete Holmes as Bradshaw’s neighbor, and Nicolette Robinson as a friend of one of Alcala’s victims.
The film sheds light on the dark and haunting story of Rodney Alcala, his heinous crimes, and the lives he affected. It serves as a reminder of the dangers that lurk beneath seemingly ordinary facades and the importance of staying vigilant in the face of danger.
