Woman of the Hour: The True Story of Serial Killer Rodney Alcala and The Dating Game
A new Netflix film, Woman of the Hour, directed by Anna Kendrick, dramatizes the chilling true story of Rodney Alcala, a serial killer who infamously appeared on a television dating show while in the midst of his crimes. Known as the “Dating Game Killer,” Alcala’s life and heinous acts are explored in this gripping narrative.
Who Was Rodney Alcala?
Rodney Alcala was a notorious serial killer and sex offender responsible for the murders of eight women across New York, California, and Wyoming between 1971 and 1979. However, it is believed that he may have killed over 100 women and girls during his criminal career. Alcala often posed as a fashion photographer, luring his victims by offering to take their pictures.
In 1980, Alcala was sentenced to death for the murder of 12-year-old Robin Samsoe, but his sentence was overturned, leading to a series of trials. He was ultimately convicted again in 2010, after forensic evidence linked him to other murders. Alcala died in prison in 2021 at the age of 77.
The Dating Game Appearance
Alcala became known as the “Dating Game Killer” due to his appearance on the popular TV show The Dating Game in September 1978, just two years before his conviction for murder. The show featured a format where a single woman asked questions to three unseen bachelors, ultimately choosing one for a date based on their responses. Alcala was selected by contestant Cheryl Bradshaw, who later described him as “creepy,” a feeling that likely saved her life.
Only snippets of that episode remain, as the original footage has been lost.
Depiction in Woman of the Hour
Woman of the Hour opens in 1977, showcasing Alcala’s sinister approach as he photographs a woman named Sarah in a remote area. The film explores Alcala’s predatory behavior without showing the murders on screen, focusing instead on his initial encounters with various women.
Anna Kendrick not only directed the film but also portrayed Cheryl Bradshaw. The film takes creative liberties, presenting a fictionalized account of Bradshaw’s date with Alcala, including a dramatic bar scene that never actually occurred in real life.
One of the harrowing stories featured in the film is that of Monique Hoyt, who managed to escape after being attacked by Alcala. At just 15 years old, Hoyt convinced Alcala she was interested in him, allowing her to escape when he stopped at a gas station.
Anna Kendrick’s Vision
Kendrick’s involvement in the project initially began as a producer role before she took on directing duties. In discussing the film, she acknowledged the surprising nature of such a dark subject matter for her. She stated, “I can understand why a movie that opens with an act of violence doesn’t really seem like it’s in my wheelhouse,” but emphasized her ability to relate to the experiences of being with someone dangerous.
Kendrick aimed to depict violence in a way that was impactful yet not gratuitous, stating, “the violence in the movie is rarely literal or explicit.”
Critical Reception
Woman of the Hour has garnered generally positive reviews, with critics praising Kendrick’s directorial debut. Some noted her talent for creating suspenseful scenes while maintaining her signature wit. However, others pointed out issues with tonal inconsistencies.
The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival but was unable to be promoted due to Hollywood strikes. Despite mixed reviews, the story’s powerful narrative has resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Keywords: Woman of the Hour, Rodney Alcala, Dating Game Killer, Anna Kendrick, Netflix film, true crime drama, serial killer story, Cheryl Bradshaw, Monique Hoyt, critical reception.
