In 1970s Los Angeles, a game‑show audition turns into something far darker. Woman of the Hour tells the chilling true story of a blind‑date‑style TV show — and what happens when one of the contestants hiding behind a mask is more dangerous than anyone imagines.
Directed by Anna Kendrick (in her feature‑film debut) and starring Kendrick herself as Sheryl Bradshaw, along with Daniel Zovatto as the disturbing bachelor, the movie follows an aspiring actress who innocently signs up for a chance at fame… but ends up face to face with a terrifying secret from a man harboring a horrifying past.
Genre: Crime · Thriller · Drama / Mystery
Release Year: 2024
Runtime: 94 min
Distributor / Streaming: Netflix
Why “Woman of the Hour” Might Stick With You
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True‑crime roots & real‑life horror: Because the story is based on actual events — one of the most chilling true‑crime cases tied to a game‑show appearance — the tension never feels fake or exaggerated.
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Atmosphere & direction that creeps under your skin: Kendrick doesn’t rely on jump‑scares or gore. Instead, she builds creeping dread through looks, silence, and everyday moments — making the horror feel realistic and unsettling.
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Strong performances: Kendrick and Zovatto create a disturbing contrast — innocence and charm vs hidden menace — making you question what’s behind every smile and glance.
Maybe Skip It If…
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You don’t like heavy or disturbing stories — this one deals with real violence and psychological horror.
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You prefer lighter, feel‑good movies or clear “good vs. bad” stories.
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You get easily unsettled by intense tension and horror‑thriller themes.
Bottom line: Woman of the Hour isn’t light or easy — it’s a slow burn of dread, a haunting slow reveal rather than a flashy thriller. But if you’re into true‑crime, psychological tension, and films that linger in your mind after they end, this one hits hard and stays with you.
Woman of the Hour sounds like such a compelling, dark story. I’m always drawn to true crime, especially when it’s set in the 70s. Thanks for the review, I’ll definitely check it out.
wow this sounds like a really intense watch, especially knowing its a true story from the 70s. definitely adding woman of the hour to my list
I’m always drawn to stories like “Woman of the Hour” that adapt true events. It’s fascinating how a seemingly mundane situation can turn so dark, making me curious about the original game show context.
I’ve been meaning to watch ‘Woman of the Hour’ since I heard about it. The premise sounds absolutely chilling, especially knowing it’s based on a true story. Thanks for the heads-up on whether it’s worth the watch!