New Netflix Film Explores Story of 'Dating Game Killer'
The new Netflix film *Woman of the Hour* dramatizes the chilling true story of Rodney Alcala, known as the "Dating Game Killer.
" Directed by Anna Kendrick, the film examines Alcala's appearance on the 1978 television dating show *The Dating Game*, which occurred during a period when he was committing heinous crimes.
Alcala was a serial killer and sex offender convicted of eight murders across New York, California, and Wyoming from 1971 to 1979, though he is suspected of having killed over 100 women and girls.
Posing as a fashion photographer, he would charm his victims and convince them to take photos, only to turn violent.
His infamous appearance on *The Dating Game* became a macabre footnote in his life; he was selected by contestant Cheryl Bradshaw, who later described him as "creepy" and ultimately chose not to go on a date with him, a decision that likely saved her life.
The film begins in 1977 with Alcala attacking a woman named Sarah, setting a dark tone for the story. It shifts through various timelines, showcasing Alcala’s encounters with several women leading up to their tragic fates.
While the murders themselves are not shown explicitly, the tension and horror are palpable as viewers witness the moments of manipulation and deceit.
Kendrick, who stars as Bradshaw, infuses the narrative with a more feminist perspective than the original events.
Her portrayal highlights the absurdity of a dangerous man winning a dating game, framing it as a commentary on societal norms and perceptions of safety. Alcala's interactions are depicted as increasingly unsettling, making the audience acutely aware of the threat he poses.
One notable storyline involves Monique Hoyt, a young girl who managed to escape Alcala after being attacked. In the film, she is depicted as a character named Amy, who cleverly convinces Alcala that she wants a relationship before fleeing during a gas station stop. This gripping moment illustrates both her resilience and the reality of Alcala’s manipulation tactics.
Critics have responded positively to *Woman of the Hour*, praising Kendrick’s directorial debut for its balance of suspense and dark humor. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and has been noted for its careful handling of violence, focusing more on the psychological horror rather than graphic depictions.
Overall, *Woman of the Hour* offers a compelling exploration of a disturbing true crime story, highlighting both the horror of Alcala’s actions and the resilience of his survivors.
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