"That's a nice-a donut."
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Psycho (1960)
Psycho is undoubtedly great director Alfred Hitchcock's most famous, and probably the most-watched, of his many great films. For most movie-goers, it is most likely the first thing they think of about the Master of Suspense. The shocking movie (though, of course, a little tame by today's standards) was one of the first to use a marketing campaign that revolved around a big surprise (e.g., you must see this, but don't tell anyone about it, or you'll ruin it). It was sort of the precursor to the don't-spoil-me view that many people have today with television and movies. And, more to the point, the Shower Scene in Psycho is arguably the epitome and the apex of suspense on film and has probably been imitated more than any other. The remarkably simple scene is one of the most perfectly filmed scenes ever.
But there is a lot more to like about Psycho then just that. It is actually a very deep, engaging movie that, despite the spoiler warnings, actually rewards repeat viewers. The beginning of the movie is somewhat of a throwaway, where Marion Crane (Janet Leigh) is dealing with her lover Sam (John Gavin) and her job at a real estate office, but it helps set up an ongoing plot later on. She decides to make a run from things and, after a bad storm, ends up at the lonely old Bates Motel. There she meets creepy Norman (Anthony Perkins) and, well, then the shower scene happens. The movie takes a sudden shift after that by focusing more on a detective (Martin Balsam), Sam, and Marion's sister (Vera Miles). Though the centerpiece is Norman and his mother.
Amazingly enough, Psycho received just four Oscar nominations and was shut out. More amazing is the fact that Bernard Herrmann's fantastic score received no recognition at the time. As with John Williams' theme for Jaws, and John Carpenter's for Halloween, Herrmann's music single-handedly creates one terrifying moment after another. Of course, Perkins helps by becoming such an unforgettable character. His Norman walks such a fine line between appearing normal and appearing like a third-rate psychopath that it could make you question everyone around you. Who is normal and healthy and who is completely and utterly insane? The role no doubt influenced hundreds of actors to follow, and is clearly an inspiration for Anthony Hopkins' Hannibal Lector.
Unfortunately, Psycho is marred somewhat by the very lame and unnecessary epilogue. It takes it down at least half a letter grade. It really should have been completely cut, after what would have been an ideal ending after the great fadeout on Norman's mother's face. I wonder if this was added in at the request of the studio, or if Hitchcock actually liked it. In either case, this should certainly be the starting point for any Hitchcock novice. Though it's most remembered for the scene, there is a lot more to like about Psycho. It is deservedly regarded as one of the Master's best movies - which, by definition, makes it one of the better horror/thriller films of all-time.
The Verdict: A-.
Michael Bentley 12:16 PM
Archives
March 2005
April 2005
May 2005
June 2005
July 2005
August 2005
September 2005
October 2005
November 2005
December 2005
January 2006
February 2006
March 2006
April 2006
May 2006
June 2006
July 2006
August 2006
September 2006
|
|
|
|
