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Anna Kendrick’s selfless act: donating entire salary from “woman of the hour”
Anna Kendrick has always been known for her authenticity and compassion, both on and off the screen. Recently, during an enlightening interview on the “Crime Junkie AF” podcast, she unveiled a profoundly selfless decision. The acclaimed actress and director donated her entire earnings from her directorial debut, “Woman of the Hour,” to two prominent nonprofits: RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) and the National Center for Victims of Violent Crime.
The decision to donate
“I never intended for ‘Woman of the Hour’ to be a money-making endeavor,” Kendrick shared during the interview. “When Netflix acquired the movie, only a week before its premiere at TIFF, I realized it was set to make a profit. I questioned myself, ‘Do you feel okay with this?’. The answer was clear—I did not.”
Kendrick’s resolve to channel her earnings to these nonprofits, which are at the forefront of supporting survivors of sexual abuse and violence, underscores her commitment to social justice. “Not making money from the movie felt like the least I could do,” she continued. “The entire sum is allocated to RAINN and the National Center for Victims of Violent Crime. It felt right.”
Industry response and impact
The leadership at RAINN echoed Kendrick’s sentiments with heartfelt gratitude. The organization’s president articulated, “We’re immensely grateful to Anna Kendrick for her support of RAINN and all survivors. Her donation will significantly enhance our ability to provide continuous, free support through our National Sexual Assault Hotline.”
This generous contribution is not just a charitable act but a powerful statement. It highlights the often-overlooked aspect of using one’s platform to foster genuine change. Kendrick’s efforts prove that the entertainment industry’s power players can indeed contribute meaningfully beyond the screen.
A directorial debut with a powerful narrative
“Woman of the Hour” marks a significant milestone in Kendrick’s career, being her first directorial venture. The film delves into the chilling true story of serial killer Rodney Alcala, played by Daniel Zovatto, focusing on his unsettling appearance on the TV show “The Dating Game” amidst his spree of heinous crimes. Alcala was eventually convicted of five murders, though it is widely believed he was responsible for over 120 killings.
In the movie, Kendrick portrays Sheryl Bradshaw, a contestant on the fated episode of “The Dating Game”. The narrative is intense, with scenes depicting Alcala’s predatory behavior and outright atrocities against young women, making Kendrick’s decision to donate her earnings even more poignant.
Commitment to ethical storytelling
Upon further reflection, Kendrick revealed that the film resonated deeply with her personal experiences. “Every moment of ‘Woman of the Hour’ echoes my own personal fears and past traumas,” she admitted. Having endured her own trials with emotional abuse, Kendrick found herself particularly drawn to the script at a time of personal turmoil. This connection added a raw layer of authenticity and empathy to her storytelling.
In a statement released by the National Center for Victims of Crime, the organization credited Kendrick for her extraordinary compassion and leadership. “In an era where true crime often sensationalizes tragedy, Anna’s approach in ‘Woman of the Hour’ is a guiding light of empathy. By championing a victim-centered narrative, she is reshaping how such stories are told, emphasizing the humanity behind each statistic.”
Redefining true crime
Anna Kendrick’s “Woman of the Hour” is more than a film; it’s a statement—a courageous attempt to handle the delicate subject of true crime with the sensitivity it deserves. By donating her earnings, Kendrick sends a message about the responsibility of storytellers. The commitment to donate all her fees as director, star, and executive producer emphasizes her dedication to impactful storytelling.
“True crime should engage with hard truths while honoring the victims,” Kendrick’s narrative insists. Her work challenges the often voyeuristic nature of the genre, urging a shift towards a culture that listens, validates, and empowers survivors’ experiences.
Watch now on Netflix
Anna Kendrick’s “Woman of the Hour” is currently available for streaming on Netflix. For those invested in authentic, ethical storytelling, this film is an important watch.
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