Review of Psycho (1960) by Ash-Lord — 15 Nov 2013

I've been wanting to see this film for a long time. I'm actually glad I waited. Had I seen this at a much younger age (like I had with Evil Dead 2 and The Exorcist) I wouldn't have appreciated it. Evil Dead 2 and The Exorcist are horror masterpieces too, but they're much more.... I guess alot more is happening. Psycho plays very much on suspense and much more subtle humor. Alfred Hitchcock once said, "I enjoy playing the audience like a piano". Psycho instantly comes to mind when I hear this quote. Each scene has a disturbing quietness and stillness about it, that while it may be boring for some viewers, is essential for when the big scares come. Psycho is all about build-up with a very big pay off.

The acting is superb, especially from Anthony Perkins, our psycho Norman Bates. He plays his role brilliantly. He goes from a nice hotel manager to a slightly disturbed Momma's boy to an innocent Momma's boy and then into a completely psychotic (*Spoiler Alert*) Mom/Boy. He is truly frightening. Janet Leigh is very good as well, and contrasts Norman's deranged psyche very well. The rest of the supporting cast is great as well, especially Vera Miles.

The direction by Alfred Hitchcock is brilliant. The way every shot is set up is absolutely brilliant, especially during the shower scene which is quite a feat. He filmed a scene involving a woman being stabbed in the shower without any nudity or violence. That's impressive. The writing is excellent, although the movie is very visual there are some great lines to be had ("We all go a little mad sometimes"). The cinematography is great like I said before the shower scene is handled very well and the closing shot is creepy as hell. The music is great especially during the famous shower scene, it's creepy and mixes with the ambiance very well. The editing is great, yet again especially during that shower scene. In fact, let's just say right now that pretty much everything is handled very well with the shower scene. Bam. Now let's never speak of it again.

This movie deserves all the praise it gets and more. There is not a thing wrong with this film, it's scary, suspenseful, and masterfully made. For years I've heard about the brilliance of Alfred Hitchcock, but I never got around to seeing any of his films until now. I was left breathless after viewing this film, it is absolutely brilliant. This movie is a masterpiece in every way and It leaves me excited to watch more of Hitchcock's films.

Overall: A landmark for the horror genre and film in general, Psycho is creepy and artful and deserves the praise it gets.

FINAL SCORE: 10/10 CERTIFIED KICK-ASH!