In Woman of the Hour, a powerful and chilling thriller directed by Anna Kendrick, the story delves into the infamous real-life case of serial killer Rodney Alcala, who appeared as a contestant on The Dating Game in the 1970s. Kendrick’s directorial debut brings together a compelling cast to depict this twisted story of suspense and horror. Here’s a detailed look at the cast of Woman of the Hour, highlighting their roles, backgrounds, and how they bring this intense narrative to life.
Anna Kendrick as Cheryl Bradshaw
The lead role of Cheryl Bradshaw in Woman of the Hour is portrayed by none other than Anna Kendrick, who also serves as the film’s director. Known for her versatility in films like Pitch Perfect and A Simple Favor, Kendrick steps into the shoes of Bradshaw, a struggling actress who unknowingly scored a date with Rodney Alcala, one of the era’s most notorious criminals.
Bradshaw, who appeared on The Dating Game, ultimately sensed something was wrong and chose not to go on the date with Alcala. Kendrick’s portrayal highlights Bradshaw’s intuition and self-preservation instincts in an era where women’s concerns often went unheard. Kendrick’s experience as an actor allows her to imbue the character with vulnerability and strength, making her a compelling centerpiece in the cast of Woman of the Hour.
Daniel Zovatto as Rodney Alcala
Playing the role of the serial killer Rodney Alcala, Daniel Zovatto brings an intense and unnerving energy to Woman of the Hour. Known for his roles in The Pope’s Exorcist and Don’t Breathe, Zovatto captures the disturbing demeanor of Alcala. Alcala appeared as a charming bachelor on The Dating Game, deceiving the public while hiding his gruesome double life.
Zovatto’s performance brings depth to the terror Alcala instilled in his victims. His character’s disturbing persona is balanced with charisma, capturing the dissonance between Alcala’s public and private lives. As a significant figure in the cast of Woman of the Hour, Zovatto’s portrayal adds depth to the horror that unfolds on screen.
Tony Hale as Ed
Tony Hale, celebrated for his comedic roles in Veep and Arrested Development, takes on a more dramatic role in Woman of the Hour as Ed, the game show host. In real life, this role was originally occupied by Jim Lange, who hosted The Dating Game. Hale’s character is pivotal in creating the setting for the plot, as he witnesses Cheryl’s discomfort and Alcala’s unsettling behavior.
As part of the cast of Woman of the Hour, Hale brings a touch of humor, contrast, and realism, reminding audiences of the show’s popularity and how Alcala’s dark side was initially hidden under his charismatic facade.
Matt Visser as Bachelor #1 (Josh)
Newcomer Matt Visser plays Josh, known as Bachelor #1 on The Dating Game in Woman of the Hour. Though his role may seem minor, Visser’s character represents the ordinary people who unknowingly interacted with Alcala on the show. Visser’s portrayal brings authenticity to the film, as he navigates the complexities of being a contestant alongside Alcala.
Visser’s character, Bachelor #1, contributes to the eerie atmosphere of the cast of Woman of the Hour, highlighting the unsettling interactions that went unnoticed by many at the time.
Jedidiah Goodacre as Arnie (Bachelor #2)
Jedidiah Goodacre portrays Arnie, known as Bachelor #2, in the cast of Woman of the Hour. Goodacre, recognized from roles in Descendants and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, takes on a character that helps capture the bizarre yet true story of Alcala’s appearance on the show.
The real-life Bachelor #2 described Alcala as giving off “creepy vibes,” a sentiment that Goodacre effectively conveys in his portrayal. His performance amplifies the unsettling experience felt by contestants in Alcala’s presence, further adding to the realistic tension in the cast of Woman of the Hour.
Nicolette Robinson as Laura
Actress Nicolette Robinson brings to life the character of Laura in Woman of the Hour, a woman who begins to suspect something sinister about Alcala. Known for her roles in The Affair and Hart of Dixie, Robinson adds depth to her character, portraying someone who is cautious and perceptive. Her character, Laura, represents the individuals who began to connect the dots about Alcala’s dangerous past.
Robinson’s role as Laura stands out in the cast of Woman of the Hour, adding a layer of tension as her suspicions heighten throughout the film.
Kathryn Gallagher as Charlie
Kathryn Gallagher plays Charlie, a woman who tragically falls into Alcala’s trap in Woman of the Hour. Gallagher, known for her role in You, brings vulnerability and complexity to the character, reflecting the real-life tragedies of Alcala’s victims.
Gallagher’s portrayal emphasizes the dangers faced by women at the time, especially those who encountered Alcala. Her performance in the cast of Woman of the Hour is powerful, emphasizing the chilling reality of Alcala’s crimes.
Pete Holmes as Terry
In the cast of Woman of the Hour, Pete Holmes plays Terry, a fellow actor and friend to Cheryl, who has an interest in her beyond friendship. Holmes, primarily known for his comedic work in Crashing and How We Roll, brings warmth to his character, contrasting the darkness of the story.
Terry’s character adds a lighter side to the film while highlighting the complexities of Cheryl’s personal life. Holmes’s portrayal as a character offering support brings balance and depth to the cast of Woman of the Hour.
Autumn Best as Amy
Newcomer Autumn Best plays Amy, a teenage runaway who becomes a victim of Alcala. Though her character is young and vulnerable, Amy’s encounter with Alcala is chilling. Best portrays Amy’s courage as she escapes from a horrifying situation, adding a hopeful moment amid the darkness.
As part of the cast of Woman of the Hour, Autumn Best’s character highlights Alcala’s impact on young women and adds a survivor’s story to the narrative.
Kelley Jakle as Sarah
Kelley Jakle, known for her appearances in Pitch Perfect, plays Sarah, one of Alcala’s earliest victims in Woman of the Hour. Her character brings another layer of tragedy, depicting one of Alcala’s many victims who unfortunately crossed his path. Jakle’s performance is subtle yet effective, reflecting the gravity of her character’s fate.
In the cast of Woman of the Hour, Jakle’s role serves as a reminder of the lives affected by Alcala, further enhancing the film’s tension and emotion.
The Importance of the Cast of Woman of the Hour
Each actor in the cast of Woman of the Hour brings a unique perspective to the characters, based on the real-life figures affected by Alcala’s actions. With Anna Kendrick’s direction, this cast delivers powerful performances that highlight the grim reality behind Alcala’s crimes, while paying homage to the individuals impacted by his dark past.
Through detailed portrayals, this cast of Woman of the Hour helps to shed light on a chilling chapter in history, making the film both impactful and memorable. With a blend of experienced and emerging actors, the cast of Woman of the Hour brings depth, tension, and realism to the story, drawing viewers into the world of The Dating Game and the horrifying secrets behind the scenes.
