Gripping Directorial Debut in the True Crime Genre
Accordingly, a 70s-set true crime thriller like Woman of the Hour might make for a sensational first impression as a director for anyone, but particularly for Anna Kendrick. Shot against the placid past of California's television industry, the world premiere of the film came last year at the Toronto Film Festival, singled out as one of several actor-turned-director projects. While many fits-and-starts directorial debuts that came out of the festival, however, Kendrick's thriller is proven to be rather close to being a strong contender, showing promise both behind and in front of the camera.
The Plot: A Chilling Encounter on "The Dating Game"
Kendrick writes and acts in the film as Sheryl, an unemployed actress who is talked into appearing on a popular TV game show, The Dating Game. How does Sheryl have any prescience when she selects Rodney Alcala, played by Daniel Zovatto, as her date when, in fact, he is a notorious serial rapist and murderer?. Through a brilliant non-linear narrative, Kendrick keeps the viewer on their toes as she finally unravels the real character of Alcala through the plot.
Real 70s Atmosphere and Social Satire
Kendrick has really focused on every detail to get that feel of the era. Be it the psychedelic clothing or the cultural values followed during the 70s, she transports the audience to the 70s television world. But Woman of the Hour is far from aesthetics. Kendrick cleverly provides with that subliminal sexism of the time with the entertainment industry full of fragile male egos and veiled threats. The movie is more than a crime that has taken place but also an intricate land that women had to traverse in their lives in the 1970s.
Conclusion: A Thriller That Delivers
In her debut as a director, Anna Kendrick stitches suspense and social critique into the fabric of the cinematic tapestry of Woman of the Hour. This certainly marks her as a filmmaker to watch-and perhaps from her "Pitch Perfect" past.