A new film “Woman of the Hour,” directed by Anna Kendrick, presents a grim narrative centered on the true story of Rodney Alcala, a notorious serial killer who gained infamy through his appearance on “The Dating Game.” The film exposes scenes of Alcala’s heinous acts with the experiences of Cheryl Bradshaw, an aspiring actress and contestant on the show. 

Woman of the Hour, directed by Anna Kendrick, depicts the crimes of Rodney Alcala, who became known as the “Dating Game Killer”. Alcala appeared as a bachelor on the Blind Date-style show in 1978, two years before he was convicted of the murder of a 12-year-old girl. He was eventually found guilty of eight murders in total, however it’s thought he killed many more women and girls. Alcala died in prison in 2021.

Rodney Alcala was a serial killer and sex offender who 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 1980, Alcala was sentenced to death in California for the murder of 12-year-old Robin Samsoe. However, his sentence was later overturned by the California Supreme Court and he was granted a new trial. He received the same penalty in the second trial in 1986, but that too was overturned in 2003. In subsequent years, investigators discovered forensic evidence linking Alcala to other California murders.

“Woman of the Hour” attempts to shift focus from the killer to his victims, thereby illuminating societal fears regarding male violence against women. Kendrick’s directorial debut has significant potential in addressing critical issues surrounding gender-based violence, it occasionally succumbs to a dry academic tone that undermines its impact.