“Woman of the Hour” is a 2023 true-crime drama directed by Anna Kendrick, who also stars in the film. It tells the story of the chilling real-life case of Cheryl Bradshaw, a woman who meets a man named Rodney Alcala, who appears charming and trustworthy but is later revealed to be a notorious serial killer. The film is based on the events leading up to and following Cheryl’s appearance on The Dating Game, a popular TV show from the 1970s.
At the end of the movie, the narrative focuses on the unsettling realization that the man Cheryl thought was harmless and charming—Rodney Alcala—is actually the “Dating Game Killer,” responsible for multiple murders. The story builds tension by juxtaposing the lighthearted nature of the dating game with the dark reality of Alcala’s criminal activities.
The final moments emphasize Cheryl’s role as an unwitting participant in a horrific story. The film leaves the audience with a mix of disbelief and discomfort, knowing that Alcala was never caught until much later, even after his appearance on the show. The unsettling conclusion highlights the broader horror of Alcala’s ability to blend in with society while hiding his dark secrets, and it raises questions about how so many were unaware of his true nature for so long.
