Netflix drops trailer for chilling true crime drama directed by Hollywood star

Netflix has tantalised fans with the debut trailer for an eagerly-awaited film helmed by Anna Kendrick in her first outing as a director.

The gripping tale unfolds in Woman of the Hour, with Kendrick not only directing but also starring as Cheryl Bradshaw. The plot delves into the true chilling encounter of when Bradshaw, as a contestant on a well-known dating show, unwittingly entangles with 'The Dating Game Killer', a man who had already claimed the lives of five women before his appearance on the show in 1978.

Portraying the notorious Rodney Alcala is Daniel Zovatto, whose grisly history comes to light throughout the film.

The freshly released trailer sets a chilling tone from the outset; it opens with a frisson-inducing date at a dilapidated bar between Cheryl and Rodney.

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Cheryl appears puzzled as she is compared to Patti Smith, a reaction that results in Rodney slamming his drink down, underscored by disquieting background music, reports the Manchester Evening News.

In a probing question, Rodney asks, "How do you feel right now?", to which Cheryl, clearly confused, replies: "Fine."

Although he motions for another round, Cheryl subtly indicates to the waitress to hold off.

The tension escalates further as the pair leave, with Rodney insisting on walking Cheryl home. She tries to slip away, only for him to call out, intent on confirming her number once again, despite already receiving it, stubbornly urging: "I just want to make sure I have the right one."

As Rodney's agitation surfaces when he presses, "You can't repeat it from memory?" the trailer reaches its anxiety-inducing conclusion with Cheryl walking ahead and Rodney ominously trailing behind her.

The enthralling new trailer released on YouTube today, 17 September, has figuratively ignited the comments section with fans of crime films and cinemagoers alike buzzing in anticipation.

"Based on the serial killer Rodney Alcala. This is going to be such an interesting movie, can't wait!" enthused a keen film buff.

"They had me with Anna the actor," stated another fan, sharing their excitement. "I am staying for Anna the director. Time to shine double time next month."

Elsewhere, another dedicated Anna enthusiast declared: "Oh Anna! My breath, it is gone. You've taken it away."

Moreover, countless viewers have been delighting in the unusual experience of watching a trailer that deftly avoids revealing too much of the story.

"A trailer for the first time in so many years without revealing the entire movie," a particularly astounded viewer praised.

Woman of the Hour will be released on Friday, October 18 on Netflix.