Anna Kendrick Donates Salary from Directorial Debut Woman of the Hour to Women’s Charities
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Anna Kendrick, the acclaimed actor-turned-director, has revealed that she donated her entire salary from her directorial debut, Woman of the Hour, to women’s charities. The crime thriller, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2023 and was released on Netflix in October 2024, is based on the chilling true story of serial killer Rodney Alcala—known as ‘The Dating Game Killer.’
Kendrick not only directed the film but also starred as Sheryl Bradshaw, one of Alcala’s victims, after stepping in as director following Chloe Okuno’s departure. The film’s production faced delays as funding was secured, eventually selling at the Cannes Film Festival in 2022 before Kendrick took the helm as director and producer.
Woman of the Hour has been praised for its sensitive portrayal of Alcala’s victims, offering a sobering perspective that humanizes those affected by his crimes. While eight victims are confirmed, Alcala is suspected of murdering up to 130 people, with chilling similarities drawn to Ted Bundy.
In a recent SiriusXM interview, Kendrick shared that the film was deeply personal for her, as it connected with her own experiences of trauma, including surviving an emotionally abusive relationship—something she previously explored in her performance in Alice, Darling (2022). This emotional connection inspired her dedication to telling the victims’ stories with care and honesty.
Given the film’s heavy themes of systemic misogyny and violence against women, Kendrick felt uncomfortable profiting from the project. “Once I realised, ‘Oh there’s going to be money exchanging hands,’ I asked myself the question, ‘Do you feel gross about this?’” she explained. “And I did. So I’m not making money off the movie. The money has gone to RAINN and the National Center for Victims of Crime.”
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) and the National Center for Victims of Crime are leading organizations that provide support and advocacy for survivors of violence and abuse.
Kendrick added, “I think that it’s still a complicated area, but that felt like certainly… the least that I should do.”
Her decision highlights a profound commitment not only to the film’s message but also to supporting real-world efforts to combat violence against women. Through Woman of the Hour, Kendrick has taken a courageous step—both artistically and personally—to raise awareness and foster dialogue about trauma, survival, and systemic injustice.
