Netflix's new No. 1 movie is transforming true crime — and I can't stop thinking about it

It’s not every day that Netflix releases a true crime thriller that really gets under your skin, but “Woman of the Hour” does just that. I was dying to see it after hearing the rave reviews upon its release, but I didn’t expect it to captivate me as much as it did. Now that Woman of the Hour has taken the top spot on the streaming service, she’s ready to receive even more recognition.

Marking the directorial debut of Anna Kendrick, this captivating film redefines the true crime genre by sidestepping the more serious pitfalls that often accompany it. Instead of sensationalizing the events, it taps into the down-to-earth horror of what actually happened. And that’s why it leaves the viewer feeling more unsettled than entertained.

I firmly believe that Woman of the Hour will fundamentally change the true crime genre. That’s why this Netflix film deserves your attention right now.

“Woman of the Hour” is so creepy and deeply disturbing

(Image credit: Netflix)

In 1978, notorious serial killer Rodney Alcala (portrayed by Daniel Zovatto) set his sights on his next potential victim while appearing on national television. He was eventually convicted and is suspected of seven murders in two states many more. “Woman of the Hour” is based on this chilling true story.

Anna Kendrick takes on the role of aspiring actress Sheryl Bradshaw, who becomes a bachelorette in an episode of the 1970s blind dating show The Dating Game. Bachelor #3 is none other than Rodney, the infamous serial killer who was later dubbed the “Dating Game Killer.”

As a woman, watching this film was an uncomfortable experience, but I believe it is an important experience. Reading the premise alone didn’t really prepare me for the film. But I may I’ll say this is scarier than any crime movie I’ve ever seen, just because of the realistic portrayal of such an evil spirit.

It’s unusual for a film about a serial killer to focus on the victims and survivors, but Woman of the Hour brings a refreshing twist to the genre. Unfortunately, the fears women face and the lengths they go to to protect themselves have remained largely unchanged since the 1970s. And that’s the real horror here.

Jumping between timelines is one of the reasons this film works so well. We meet various women that Rodney has lured to remote locations under the guise of a photo shoot, including a young survivor, Amy (Autumn Best). Then there’s Lauren (Nicolette Robinson), a dating show viewer who recognizes Rodney and tries to warn someone, only to be ignored by those in power. Sheryl, on the other hand, has a more linear storyline, from the moment she gets the call about the dating show to her appearance on it. As a viewer, you already sense the consequences, and I still feel tense just thinking about it.

Best in autumn

(Image credit: Netflix)

Kendrick’s first directorial effort on Woman of the Hour is truly impressive. She masterfully captures the disturbing reality of the media and the distorted thinking of a serial killer. And we see the deadly consequences that result from both.

But I have to commend Kendrick for her ability to create a simple yet powerful portrayal of moments where women’s fear of men is justified and pervasive. She makes these situations seem real and relatable and shows the audience that the horror lies not just in the actions of a serial killer, but in the normalized, everyday experiences that women face. “Woman of the Hour” does something that many films lack – it stays in your mind. And that’s exactly what it aims to do.

You need to watch Woman of the Hour on Netflix

Anna Kendrick as Sheryl in

(Image credit: Netflix)

Woman of the Hour is a must-watch on Netflix and it’s no surprise that it takes the top spot on the platform. This is a well-crafted thriller that goes deeper than the usual true crime story. It reveals the underlying misogyny that underlies the violence, making it more than just a chilling retelling of a serial killer’s exploits.

This true crime film is disturbing in every way as it sheds light on how the ongoing mistreatment of women becomes normalized and the risks that come with this acceptance. It’s a gripping, insightful story that you definitely shouldn’t miss.

For more information, see our guide at The Most Shocking True Crime Documentaries or see what’s new on Netflix this week.

Otherwise, keep streaming “Woman of the Hour.” Netflix Now.

Netflix’s new No. 1 movie is transforming true crime — and I can’t stop thinking about it

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