Episode 33: Alfred Hitchcok’s Psycho (1960)
Rotten Tomato Score: 97%
Step inside the shadowy world of Alfred Hitchcock's "Psycho" as we peel back the curtain on the eerie nuances of this cinematic juggernaut. Our journey through the spine-tingling Bates Motel and the iconic black-and-white palette of this timeless classic promises to leave you with fresh eyes for Hitchcock's masterpiece. Get ready to revisit your first impressions and dissect the electrifying blend of suspense, horror, and an early cinematic twist that turned the genre on its head.
The unmatched legacy of "Psycho" is hard to overstate, and we're here to probe the psychological depths and the subtler aspects that have kept audiences riveted for decades. From considering the relevance of certain voice overs to examining the poetic resonance of minor lines, we challenge the norms of the thriller genre, weighing the film's lasting impact against its more dated elements. Our dialogue ventures into the realm of modern cinema, discussing how the opening theme music and unanticipated plot turns continue to echo in the corridors of horror film making today.
Beyond the screams and haunting images, we invite listeners to a behind-the-scenes exploration of Hitchcock's crafty production maneuvers and the real-life horrors that inspired the character of Norman Bates. Uncover the director's ingenious methods for dodging censorship, and the crucial role of the stolen $40,000 in driving the story's tension. We leave no stone unturned, from the symbolic use of color to Hitchcock's strategic moves to protect the film's shocking revelations. Join us as we celebrate the art of storytelling through the lens of one of cinema's most chilling tales.
Plot Summary:
A Phoenix secretary embezzles $40,000 from her employer's client, goes on the run and checks into a remote motel run by a young man under the domination of his mother. (Taken from IMDb)
Watchability Scale
We both gave the film a 8 on the Watchability Scale.
Links
20 Interesting Facts About Psycho
Pscyho: Behind the Scenes Facts