Admittedly, I'm not very fluent when it comes to Alfred Hitchcock films. Sure, I've seen Psycho plenty of times before, but who hasn't? My only other exposure to Hitchcock was watching some of the television series and one viewing of The Birds when I was younger. So yes, I have some catching up to do.
SPOILER WARNING: When I started this blog, it was my intention to have a way to gather my thoughts about these classic movies that I love. A way to delve into them more deeply. And if some passerby happens upon these writings, know that any discussion on these films is very welcome. However, because this was conceived mainly as a way to express my opinions of them and because most of these films are decades old, I'm not looking to avoid any spoilers. If you haven't seen Psycho, I'd turn back now.
Even now, when I watch this film, I can't help but compare it to how I felt the first time I saw it. You never get over the first time you see some films. I imagine that a lot of people, whether they have seen Psycho or not are aware that it was Norman doing the killing the whole time, right? Well, I wasn't aware the first time I saw Psycho some 20 years ago and I appreciated the suspense and plot twist very much. Of course, now that I watch it, knowing what I know, it's obvious that it was Norman the whole time, isn't it? Well, yes and no. There are certainly clues in the film. Hints in Norman's dialogue. But even if you catch on early to what is really transpiring at the Bates Motel, Hitchcock does a great job of creating doubts. It's never clear. And that's part of what makes this movie so good.
When you start watching Psycho, it's a different film. By the end, you feel almost like you've sat through two different productions. Janet Leigh's character, Marion is front and center for the first half of it. You've went on this little journey with her that explores her moral dilemma. Hitchcock has made it suspenseful with the use of the traffic cop, a curious car salesman and a nice touch of rain.. And in the end Marion comes to her senses and decides to turn around and attempt to fix her mistake. The talk she has with the nice man that owns the local motel has done her some good, it seems. It's all good from here right?
No. In fact, this is where the movie gets really interesting. We've been on this journey with Marion, but this Norman Bates guy is what really grabs you. Norman is nice, well mannered, and very orderly. Nothing out of the ordinary at first. But spend some time with him and you'll see. Anthony Perkins grabs the audience with his eccentric performance and doesn't let go. And you know who's even creepier than Norman? His mother. A boys best friend is his mother after all.
If you're reading this, then you've probably already seen the film and I haven't said anything that you weren't already aware of. If you haven't seen Psycho, then I've most likely just ruined the end for you. Hey, you were warned. We all go a little mad sometimes.
GRADE: A
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