Anna Kendrick’s new movie Woman of the Hour is set to drop on Netflix, but not in all regions globally. Here’s everything we know about this highly anticipated true-crime thriller.
Netflix Acquires Woman of the Hour
Netflix has secured the distribution rights for Woman of the Hour, a thriller based on the real-life story of serial killer Rodney Alcala and his chilling appearance on the matchmaking TV show The Dating Game. The film, directed by Oscar nominee Anna Kendrick, who also stars in the lead role, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2023. Initially developed from a 2017 Black List script, the project was independently produced before Netflix picked it up for distribution in select regions.
Where Will Woman of the Hour Be Available on Netflix?
While Netflix has acquired the streaming rights, Woman of the Hour won’t be available globally. The $11 million distribution deal covers select territories, including the United States, France, Italy, Benelux, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, Hong Kong, and Indonesia, among others.
What’s the Plot of Woman of the Hour?
Woman of the Hour tells the harrowing true story of Cheryl Bradshaw, a bachelorette on the popular 1970s TV show The Dating Game, whose dream date turned into a nightmare when she discovered that the charming bachelor, Rodney Alcala, was a psychopathic serial killer in the midst of a murder spree. Alcala, also known as “The Dating Game Killer,” was active from 1968 to 1979 and was responsible for the deaths of at least five people, though the true number of his victims could be much higher. The film explores this terrifying encounter and the broader implications of Alcala’s crimes.
Who is Cast in Woman of the Hour?
Anna Kendrick stars as Cheryl Bradshaw, bringing her recent experience from projects like Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, Trolls Back Together, and Self-Reliance to the role. Opposite Kendrick, Daniel Zovatto plays Rodney Alcala, the infamous serial killer. The film’s supporting cast includes Kathryn Gallagher (Gossip Girl), Nicolette Robinson (The Affair, One Night in Miami…), Kelley Jakle (Pitch Perfect, 42), Autumn Best (4400), Pete Holmes (Crashing, How We Roll), and Tony Hale (Veep, Arrested Development).
What’s the Production Status of Woman of the Hour?
Filming for Woman of the Hour took place in Vancouver, Canada, from October to December 2022. The movie’s production was completed in time for its premiere at TIFF in September 2023, where it was met with critical acclaim.
What’s the Netflix Release Date for Woman of the Hour?
While Woman of the Hour premiered at TIFF in September 2023, Netflix has yet to announce an official release date for the film. However, given that the movie is complete and ready, it is expected to debut on the streaming platform soon. The film has a runtime of 94 minutes, but it has not yet received an official rating or a dedicated page on Netflix.
What Were the Reviews Like for Woman of the Hour?
Woman of the Hour received positive reviews following its TIFF premiere, currently holding a 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from 51 reviews. Critics have praised Kendrick’s directorial debut, with Vox noting how the film “smartly weaves into the narrative the many ways in which women are conditioned to put up with men.” However, not all reviews were glowing, with Mashable offering a more critical take: “What are girls for?” Cheryl playfully asks her bachelors, who mostly flub their replies. Kendrick’s film fares no better answering that query.”
