A chilling true crime narrative is making a comeback with Netflix’s new movie, “Woman of the Hour,” which premieres on October 18. The film, marking Anna Kendrick’s directorial debut, explores the haunting story of serial killer Rodney Alcala, infamously known as the “Dating Game Killer.” Kendrick not only directs but also stars in and executive produces the film.
Set in the 1970s, “Woman of the Hour” follows the life of Sheryl, an aspiring actress played by Kendrick, who becomes entangled with Alcala, portrayed by Daniel Zovatto. The character of Sheryl draws inspiration from Cheryl Bradshaw, the woman who went on a date with Alcala during an episode of “The Dating Game.”
In a shocking twist of fate, Alcala, already linked to multiple murders, appeared on the dating show and won a date with Bradshaw. The film explores the intersection of a seemingly innocent game show and the horrifying reality of Alcala’s crime spree, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers that lurked in Hollywood during that era.
While “Woman of the Hour” is rooted in true events, it incorporates fictional elements and altered details. It sheds light on Alcala’s brutal history, a man who was born on August 23, 1943, in San Antonio, Texas. After a troubled military service and attending UCLA, Alcala committed his first known murder in New York before continuing his reign of terror in California. Authorities officially linked him to the murders of eight women and girls, yet estimates suggest he could have killed up to 130 individuals.
In 1978, while in the midst of his killing spree, Alcala appeared on “The Dating Game,” charming producers who failed to conduct a proper background check. Had they investigated, they would have uncovered his violent criminal history.
Cheryl Bradshaw, the bachelorette in the show, initially seemed charmed by Alcala’s jovial personality but quickly became uneasy upon meeting him in person. Despite the show’s romantic incentives, she declined to go on a date with him, expressing her discomfort.
Ultimately, Alcala was captured after the murder of 12-year-old Robin Samsoe in 1979. His arrest was facilitated by a sketch released by police that resembled him. Alcala faced numerous trials and legal hurdles over the years for his crimes but was finally convicted multiple times, receiving a death sentence in 2010 for his murders in California, and later convicted for two murders in New York in 2012.