Review of Psycho (1960) by Dawdlingpoet — 23 Nov 2021

I admit this is the first time I've actually seen this classic film and it is indeed a classic. I can imagine how shocking the really very tame yet attempted to be borderline horror scenes appeared to the cinema audiences when it was released.

Undoubtedly the musical score adds a lot to the tension and perceived atmosphere of this film - it still seems very effective for that purpose. I wasn't aware of the entire story, apart from the main scene (the shower scene) and one or two other basic plot details, so I thought it was interesting to watch it and learn more about the full context of the plot.

On watching, I was surprised that the key scene happened so early on but I did feel it did well at keeping the viewer feeling a bit edgy and tense and keen/curious to learn what might be discovered about the mysterious Mr.

Bates and his mother. There are certainly some plot twists present and while I wouldn't say its by any means constantly an edge of your seat watch, I appreciated that there was more of an investigative, crime/mystery side to it.

I think this is a good example of a psychological thriller of its time and certainly if your keen on Hitchcock films then this is an obvious must see. By todays standards, its very tame but as an example of a film that slowly compels the viewer to want to know more and that has a chilly atmosphere, this is most definitely a good one.

Yes, I would recommend this film.