Psycho is a 1960 suspense/horror film directed by auteur Alfred Hitchcock from the screenplay by Joseph Stefano about a psychotic killer. It is based on the novel of the same name by Robert Bloch, which was in turn inspired by the crimes of Wisconsin serial killer Ed Gein. The film depicts the encounter between a secretary, Marion Crane (Janet Leigh), who is in hiding at a motel after embezzling from her employer, and the motel's owner, the lonely Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins). "The Shower Scene" has been studied, discussed, and referenced countless times in print and in film courses with debate focusing on why it is so terrifying and how it was produced, including how it passed the censors and who directed it.
It initially received mixed reviews but outstanding box-office returns, prompting a re-review which was overwhelmingly positive and led to four Academy Award nominations. Regarded today as one of Hitchcock's best films and highly praised as a work of cinematic art by international critics, Psycho is also acclaimed as one of the most effective horror films. The film spawned several sequels and a remake, which are generally seen as works of lesser quality.
Segments Alluded To[]
- Here's Your Problem...
- Who's Killing the Muppets?
- Psycho B**ch Pudding
Minors Allusions[]
- Attack of the Giant Midget
- Incompetent Airport Security
- The CEO of Burger King
- Pegasus Abuse
- Down On Your Knees, I'm the Piano God
External links[]
- Psycho at the Internet Movie Database
- Psycho at allmovie
- Bright Lights Film Journal article on Psycho
- Filmsite: Psycho In-depth analysis of the film.
- Review of the UK Special Edition DVD release, by Brian Elliott of DVD Reviewer
- Psycho vs. Psycho Comparison of the Hitchcock original to the Gus Van Sant recreation.