How Designers Brought 'The Dating Game' Back to Life for Netflix's 'Woman of the Hour'

Imagine stepping back into the 1970s, into the heart-shaped, orange-hued set of "The Dating Game. " This was the challenge faced by the production designers of Netflix's true crime thriller, "Woman of the Hour. " Their task? To recreate the iconic set where a real-life serial killer, Rodney Alcala, once appeared. Directed by Anna Kendrick, the movie jumps between time periods, showing Alcala's crimes and his appearance on the game show. Kendrick also stars as Cheryl Bradshaw, the bachelorette who unwittingly meets Alcala during the show. Brent Thomas, the production designer, had a unique vision. "We wanted the audience to feel what Cheryl was experiencing, " he explained. The solution? Use colorful, heart-shaped details inspired by other gameshows like "The Price Is Right" and "Let’s Make a Deal. " But they didn't just copy; they added their own creative twist.

The goal wasn't to mimic, but to dramatize. So, they built every aspect of the set, from the backstage area to the vintage TV monitors. They even created a "capsule" for Cheryl’s entrance, hinting at the danger she faced. Inside, a mirror reminded contestants to "check your lipstick, " emphasizing the show's beauty standards. Once on stage, Cheryl faced disorienting lights and blurred glass panels. These elements heightened tension, making viewers aware of the murderer among the bachelors. It all tied into the film’s theme: who's going to hurt you?

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