Anna Kendrick makes directorial debut with "Woman of the Hour," the story of The Dating Game killer

Rodney Alcala managed to appear on the popular dating show despite a history of violent crime.

Anna Kendrick makes her directorial debut with the upcoming Netflix film "Woman of the Hour," a true-crime thriller exploring the story of Rodney Alcala, the serial killer who earned the chilling nickname "The Dating Game Killer."

The film, set to premiere on October 18, 2024, tells the story from a unique perspective, focusing not on Alcala himself, but on the women whose lives were tragically cut short by his crimes. Kendrick also stars in the film as Cheryl Bradshaw, the bachelorette who unknowingly encountered Alcala on a 1978 episode of "The Dating Game."

Alcala, portrayed by Daniel Zovatto in the film, managed to appear on the popular dating show despite a history of violent crime. The film explores the chilling reality of how this dangerous individual was able to slip through the cracks of the system.

However, "Woman of the Hour" goes beyond simply recounting Alcala's crimes. The film delves into the societal issues of the 1970s and the challenges women faced while navigating the dating scene. Additionally, the story highlights the tireless efforts of Detective Steven Mack, who played a key role in bringing Alcala to justice.

Reviews for "Woman of the Hour" have been positive, praising Kendrick's direction and the film's focus on the victims. The film serves as a gripping reminder of the dangers that can lurk beneath the surface, even in seemingly harmless settings like a popular television show.