Anna Kendrick's Directorial Debut Inspired by 'Pitch Perfect' Co-Star

In the world of cinema, transitioning from acting to directing is a significant leap, and Anna Kendrick has taken that bold step with her directorial debut, "Woman of the Hour." This film, which has garnered acclaim at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), is inspired by true events from the 1970s, revolving around a chilling story where a serial killer appeared on a dating show called "The Dating Game." Kendrick not only directs but also stars in the film as Cheryl Bradshaw, who finds herself in a dangerous situation with the serial killer, played by Daniel Zovatto.

Despite her experience in front of the camera, Kendrick admitted to feeling nervous about stepping into the director's chair. Fortunately, she received invaluable support from her "Pitch Perfect" co-star, Brittany Snow. Kendrick shared that during a phone call, Snow provided her with a straightforward pep talk that cut through her anxiety. "You’ll get on set, and you’ll know what to do," Snow told Kendrick in a calm and reassuring manner. This simple yet effective advice helped Kendrick regain her confidence, allowing her to embrace the challenges of directing.

As Kendrick prepared for this new role, she faced the daunting task of finding a director for the film. Initially, the production team struggled to secure someone experienced enough to lead the project. Kendrick recalled, "We spent maybe 48 hours trying to find somebody to jump on board quickly." The urgency of the situation led her to consider the possibility of directing the film herself, a thought that both excited and terrified her. She reflected, "I just found myself having this absolutely terrifying thought — it was physically bubbling up... which was like, ‘Well, what if I pitched myself to direct the movie?'" This moment of self-realization marked a turning point in her journey.

Ultimately, Kendrick's passion for the story and her desire to shape it in her own vision propelled her to take on the directorial role. She expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "I think there was something about the movie overall that I found compelling." Her dedication to the project and her understanding of the character allowed her to bring a unique perspective to the film. Kendrick's journey from actress to director is a testament to her versatility and commitment to storytelling.

As "Woman of the Hour" prepares to stream on Netflix starting October 18, audiences can look forward to experiencing Kendrick's vision firsthand. This film not only showcases her talents behind the camera but also highlights the importance of support and encouragement from peers in the industry. Kendrick's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring filmmakers, reminding them that with determination and the right support, they can turn their creative dreams into reality.