Release date: October 18, 2024 (USA)
Director: Anna Kendrick
Production companies:Â AGC Studios;Â Vertigo Entertainment;Â BoulderLight Pictures
Taglines:In 1978, a serial killer appeared on live TV as a bachelor on The Dating Game. The only people who suspected were the women he pursued.
Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Motion Picture Rating (MPA): Rated R for language, violent content, some drug use and a sexual reference.
Audience Reviews
Critic Reviews
Woman of the Hour delivers an intense story that dives into fame, morality, and societyâs obsession with sensationalism. This gripping thriller centers around a serial killer who unexpectedly becomes a contestant on a popular dating show. Through a powerful storyline, Woman of the Hour invites viewers to confront the unsettling fascination with fame. For Beverly Boy Productions, this film demonstrates the impact of socially aware storytelling that examines deep, thought-provoking themes.
Cinematography: Capturing the Illusions of Fame
The cinematography in Woman of the Hour highlights the contrast between the glamour of fame and the chilling reality behind it. Bright colors bring the game show to life, creating a flashy, exciting atmosphere, while muted, dark tones emphasize the hidden side of the main characterâs life. This visual contrast enhances the storyâs focus on the divide between public and private lives, illustrating the darker aspects of fame.
At Beverly Boy Productions, we appreciate how this film uses visual storytelling to communicate its themes. The shift between bright, showy scenes and darker, private moments makes the story more impactful, showing how cinematography can add depth to the viewerâs experience.
Production Design: Balancing Glamour and Darkness
The production design in Woman of the Hour is both eye-catching and disturbing, perfectly balancing the contrasting worlds of television fame and the protagonistâs secret life. The game show set is lively and glamorous, creating an illusion of excitement, while the characterâs private spaces are stark and cold. This contrast in set design reveals the tension between public perception and private reality, bringing audiences closer to the story.
For Beverly Boy Productions, Woman of the Hour showcases how effective production design can enrich a story. The careful design of each scene invites viewers to engage with the characterâs journey, making the story even more compelling.
Camera Work: Emphasizing Duality
Woman of the Hour uses strategic camera work to show the divide between the protagonistâs public and private lives. Close-ups capture subtle emotions, while wider shots reveal the characterâs isolation. The camera angles alternate between polished, energetic shots on the game show and unsettling close-ups in private scenes, emphasizing the difference between whatâs seen on the surface and what lies beneath.
We appreciate how the camera work enhances the filmâs storytelling, allowing viewers to connect with the characterâs struggle. Every shot is designed to make the audience feel part of the story, creating a powerful viewing experience.
Post-Production and Sound Design: Creating a Suspenseful Atmosphere
The editing and sound design in Woman of the Hour build a tense atmosphere, enhancing both the excitement of the game show and the characterâs dark reality. The editing style switches between fast-paced cuts for high-energy moments and slower shots that reveal the main characterâs inner conflict. The sound design, from the loud applause of the audience to quiet, suspenseful sounds, brings viewers closer to the characterâs world.
For Beverly Boy Productions, this film is a reminder of how sound and editing shape the viewing experience. The careful sound work and pacing of the editing deepen the suspense, making Woman of the Hour a standout example of how post-production choices enhance storytelling.
Final Thoughts
Woman of the Hour is a thrilling addition to psychological drama, using fame and moral conflict to explore deeper issues. The filmâs strong cinematography, thoughtful production design, and impactful sound and editing work together to create an unforgettable story.
At Beverly Boy Productions, we find Woman of the Hour inspiring, as it shows how thoughtful production and visual choices can make a story more engaging. This film motivates us to continue creating high-quality productions with meaningful themes, helping clients bring powerful stories to life.
Anna Kendrick as Cheryl Bradshaw
Cheryl, a contestant on The Dating Game, won a date with Rodney Alcala but felt âweird vibesâ and refused to go out with him after sensing something unsettling.
Daniel Zovatto as Rodney Alcala
A convicted serial killer who appeared on The Dating Game while wanted for assault and murder. Alcala was later sentenced to death for killing seven women, though the real victim count may be much higher.
Tony Hale as Ed Burke/Jim Lange
Portrays the host of The Dating Game, based on the real-life host Jim Lange.
Kathryn Gallagher as Charlie
Plays Cornelia Crilley, a 23-year-old flight attendant who was murdered by Alcala in 1971. DNA evidence later connected him to her death.
Kelley Jakle as Sarah
Portrays a character inspired by Christine Ruth Thornton, who was murdered by Alcala while on a road trip in Wyoming.
Autumn Best as Runaway Teen (Amy)
Plays âAmy,â a fictional version of a real-life teen survivor of Alcala. This role is inspired by two possible survivors, Tali Shapiro and Morgan Rowan.
Jedidiah Goodacre and Matt Visser as Bachelor #1 and Bachelor #2
Portray contestants competing against Alcala on The Dating Game. Inspired by real contestants who felt a âcreepyâ vibe from Alcala backstage.