Fact check: Is Woman of the Hour about Ted Bundy?

The Netflix film Woman of the Hour released on October 18, 2024. It follows Rodney Alcala, a serial killer who appeared on The Dating Game while committing his crimes. Cheryl Bradshaw, played by Anna Kendrick, was a contestant. She chose Alcala as her bachelor but later rejected him when she realized that something wasn't right.

The movie turns its attention from Alcala to the women who are impacted by Alcala's actions, exploring the unsettling reality of dating. It shows how a seemingly harmless choice can have significant repercussions. The film offers a deeper comprehension of the perils that could be concealed behind a charming exterior by focusing on the experiences of those impacted.

Woman of the Hour focuses on Rodney Alcala and not on Ted Bundy. While both were notorious serial killers, their stories diverged significantly. Alcala's appearance on The Dating Game coincided with a string of murders in the late 1970s, making his case especially chilling.

---

Is Woman of the Hour focused on Ted Bundy?

Woman of the Hour focuses on Rodney Alcala rather than Ted Bundy. Both were notorious killers in the 1970s, but their stories are very different. Alcala's violent past shapes the film's plot and includes being him being on the FBI's Most Wanted list.

Ted Bundy, an American serial killer, was born on November 24, 1946. Known for his charm and politeness, he ra*ed, kidnapped and murdered approximately 30 girls and women in the mid-1970s but remained undetected for years, using his appealing personality to manipulate both victims and the law enforcement.

Despite multiple escapes, he was apprehended in 1978, marking the end of his criminal career. In contrast, Alcala rose to prominence after appearing on a game show, which revealed his troubling behavior toward women. The film doesn't glorify the killers; rather, it focuses on the victims' suffering.

By sharing their stories, they highlight the impact of violence and the true tragedy for those involved. The film's goal is to honor the victims while also reminding viewers of the pain caused by these crimes.

---

Overview of Woman of the Hour

The movie Woman of the Hour, set in Los Angeles in the 1970s, is based on the real story of a serial killer and an aspiring actress who meet on The Dating Game. In her directorial debut, Anna Kendrick plays Cheryl Bradshaw, who unwittingly decides to go on a date with Daniel Zovatto's character, Rodney Alcala.

The movie, which centers on the lives of women affected by Alcala's crimes, also stars Kelley Jakle and Dan Bakkedahl. As the narrative progresses, Cheryl faces the disturbing reality of her date, encapsulating the social concerns and individual anxieties of the period.

It has received recognition for its respectful depiction of actual events and emphasizes women's resilience in the face of peril. Given its popularity and the public's fascination with true crime, the Netflix film has sparked speculation about a sequel, but there have been no formal announcements as of 2024.

Tony Hale plays the game show host Ed; Nicolette Robinson stars as Laura, who recognizes Alcala, and Pete Holmes portrays Cheryl's friend Terry. Autumn Best, a newcomer, plays Amy, a teenage runaway who escapes Alcala, adding to the tension on Woman of the Hour.