Anna Kendrick’s Generous Gesture: Donates Earnings from ‘Woman of the Hour’ to Anti-Violence Charities

Anna Kendrick has made headlines for her remarkable decision to donate all her earnings from her directorial debut, "Woman of the Hour," to anti-violence charities. The film, which explores the chilling true story of serial killer Rodney Alcala, has sparked conversations about ethics in the true crime genre and the responsibilities of those who profit from such narratives.

Key Takeaways

Anna Kendrick donated her entire paycheck from "Woman of the Hour" to RAINN and the National Center for Victims of Crime.
Kendrick felt uncomfortable profiting from a film based on real-life tragedies.
The film highlights the stories of victims rather than glorifying the perpetrator.

A Compassionate Decision

In a recent interview on the "Crime Junkie AF" podcast, Kendrick revealed that she made no money from the film, stating, "This was never a money-making venture for me." She expressed her discomfort with the idea of profiting from a project that deals with sensitive and traumatic subject matter.

Kendrick’s decision to donate her earnings to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) and the National Center for Victims of Crime reflects her commitment to supporting survivors of violence. She emphasized that the funds would help these organizations continue their vital work in providing support to those affected by sexual abuse and violence.

The Impact of True Crime

The film "Woman of the Hour" tells the harrowing story of Rodney Alcala, who appeared on the dating show "The Dating Game" while committing a series of murders in the 1970s. Kendrick plays Sheryl Bradshaw, a contestant on the show, and the film aims to center the narratives of the victims rather than sensationalizing the killer’s actions.

Kendrick noted that the film’s subject matter raised ethical questions for her. "I sort of asked myself the question: ‘Do you feel gross about this?’ and I did," she said. This introspection led her to conclude that donating her earnings was the least she could do.

Support from Organizations

Both RAINN and the National Center for Victims of Crime expressed gratitude for Kendrick’s generous donation. Scott Berkowitz, founder of RAINN, stated, "We’re so grateful to Anna Kendrick for her support of RAINN and all survivors, and for being a compassionate storyteller when it comes to raising awareness of sexual violence."

The National Center for Victims of Crime echoed this sentiment, highlighting Kendrick’s commitment to a victim-centered approach in her storytelling. They praised her for reshaping narratives that prioritize the dignity of those affected by crime.

A New Standard in True Crime

Kendrick’s actions have sparked discussions about the ethical responsibilities of filmmakers in the true crime genre. Many fans and critics have praised her decision, suggesting that it sets a new standard for how stories about real-life tragedies should be handled.

Social media users have expressed their appreciation, with comments like, "This is the only somewhat ethical way to make a movie about true crime victims. More people need to be a little more Anna Kendrick."

Conclusion

As "Woman of the Hour" continues to stream on Netflix, Kendrick’s commitment to supporting survivors of violence through her donation serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that storytelling can have. By prioritizing the voices of victims and donating her earnings, Kendrick is not only raising awareness but also fostering a culture of compassion and responsibility in the entertainment industry.