Autumn Best Thought Her Disability Would Slow Her Acting Career — Then Anna Kendrick Cast Her in ‘Woman of the Hour’

As a film enthusiast who has spent countless hours in darkened theaters and binge-watched series late into the night, I must say that “Woman of the Hour” is a powerful addition to Netflix’s library. However, it’s not just Anna Kendrick‘s directorial debut that stands out; it’s the breakthrough performance of Autumn Best as Amy, the resilient runaway teen who survived Rodney Alcala’s horrific crimes.


Caution: The following narrative discloses key elements from the series “Woman of the Hour,” currently available on Netflix.

In Netflix’s “Woman of the Hour,” Anna Kendrick makes her directorial debut, but it’s not just her performance that breaks new ground. Among the portrayed victims, a remarkable character shines in the plot inspired by real events: Amy, a teenager who ran away, miraculously survived her encounter with the serial killer Rodney Alcala. Notably, Alcala appeared as a contestant on “The Dating Game” in the 1970s during his killing spree.

Autumn Best, newcomer to films, takes on a crucial role as Amy in this production. Although she’s known for her work in the CW series “The 4400”, she approached her audition without much expectation of getting the part.

At a coffee shop in Chicago, she was employed as a barista when she received an email about the opportunity. “When I saw it, I thought, they can’t possibly be considering me for this movie with Anna Kendrick – after all, it wasn’t just because she’s famous and cool, but also because I have only one hand,” she said at the film’s premiere in Los Angeles on Oct. 10 to EbMaster.

She had been eagerly anticipating a role in a full-length drama, but Best felt she was the least likely choice for this film. “Whenever I receive an audition for something that’s based on a true story,” she said, “I dismiss it right away. This is because I have convinced myself that no one would ever hire me to play a real person who doesn’t have a limb difference.” (Paraphrased)

Shortly after submitting her audition, Best’s agent phoned to inform her that Kendrick wished to discuss the character role over Zoom. “At that moment, I was working at the coffee shop and received the call,” Best explained. “So, I said, ‘I need a moment outside,'” she continued, expressing her excitement about the situation.

During filming, Best and Kendrick developed a close friendship that they referred to as being “besties.” Best expressed how Kendrick seemed to understand him perfectly by saying, “She can read my mind. She could sense when I was tired, cold, or just not myself.” (At the movie premiere, Kendrick affectionately introduced Best as her “metaphorical daughter.”)

Autumn Best Thought Her Disability Would Slow Her Acting Career — Then Anna Kendrick Cast Her in ‘Woman of the Hour’

Daniel Zovatto, portraying Alcala, commended Best’s performance. “I truly believe she has an incredibly promising career ahead,” he shared, reminiscing about a particularly intense and suspenseful scene where his character, Rodney, assaulted Amy in the desert.

At around six in the morning, it was extremely chilly. The sand felt more like ice than sand. Autumn was dressed minimally, and she seemed eager to start. She said, ‘Let’s get going!’ Zovatto commented, “When you have a scene partner as energetic as that, it makes the work even more enjoyable because everyone is engaged. I enjoyed collaborating with her.

During filming of a tough scene, Kendrick provided comfort to her by enveloping her in blankets during breaks and boosting her confidence about her acting. As Best put it, “She immediately said, ‘Hey, I acknowledge you,’ which made the day less daunting because it didn’t feel like I was pretending everything wasn’t difficult.

Apart from her insights, Kendrick mentioned an interesting observation. “It’s amusing since I don’t typically view myself as a naturally caring individual,” she stated. However, this trait didn’t require conscious effort on her part because she was mindful of the demands she placed on the film’s actors. Having been in their shoes before, she acknowledged the sacrifice they were making. Kendrick further explained that the respect everyone showed towards the material stirred deep emotions within her.

Indeed, all the actresses who played Alcala’s victims expressed gratitude for the nurturing atmosphere that Kendrick fostered on set, which they found particularly beneficial during the more challenging scenes, aiding them in their performances.

After my most challenging situation had passed, Anna appeared from behind the screen with tears in her eyes and asked, ‘Are you alright?'” stated Kathryn Gallagher, portraying Charlie. She emphasized how unusual such energy is. “It truly demonstrates that you can create an exceptionally warm, secure, and comfortable environment without compromising the quality of a fantastic film. She has set a very high standard.

As a follower embodying the spirit of the whistleblowers portrayed by Nicolette Robinson (Laura), I admire and resonate deeply with Kendrick’s vision, as it mirrors our shared sensitivities towards justice and truth.

Robinson praised Kendrick, stating that it felt like we were in exceptionally capable hands,” he said, expressing his joy working with her. “Actors rarely receive affirmation about their work. It’s often uncertain if our efforts for the day are effective. However, she was incredibly vocal and supportive in reinforcing the positive.

Kelley Jakle, who’s worked alongside Kendrick in the “Pitch Perfect” series, portrays Sara – the initial on-screen victim. Recalling a particular scene, Jakle said, “In one take, before I even opened my eyes, I felt her warm embrace like a big bear hug. It was an incredibly touching moment, not only for our friendship but also for collaborating with her as a director.

Autumn Best Thought Her Disability Would Slow Her Acting Career — Then Anna Kendrick Cast Her in ‘Woman of the Hour’

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2024-10-21 02:47