I have always loved the movie Psycho, and I love it more and more every time I watch it. Alfred Hitchcock was a master of horror, and every film fan acknowledges that. When you think of Alfred Hitchcock, you immediately think of this film, and rightfully so.
The thing about films that were released in the era of Psycho is that sometimes the dialogue was very hokey. With Psycho, even though the dialogue borders on being that, particularly in the beginning of the film, it is the music that sets the tone of the film. Because of the music, and thus the tone of the movie, we accept that these characters talk the way they do.
Anthony Perkins is beyond superb in the film as Norman Bates. He brings a certain nervousness, but not panic, to his character that really makes you feel uncomfortable watching him. His casting in this movie is a great example of an actor being known for one role their entire career, which can be a good thing or a bad thing depending on your point of view.
Janet Leigh wows as Marion Crane. Long before Jamie Lee Curtis became established as the "Scream Queen", I think Janet Leigh held that title very well. There is a scene with Leigh and John Gavin at the start of the film in which both characters are half naked, which was not a common thing to see in movies of those days. I think Hitchcock was very bold to have that scene in there.
Alfred Hitchcock is one of the most iconic directors in history. What made him a genius is that he let the audience in on things that the characters had no clue about. He was a master, plain and simple.
Psycho is undoubtedly one of greatest horror films of all time. No matter how times I watch it, it always creeps me out. Yet, I also am always waiting to see that Anthony Perkins smile at the end.
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