Sir Alfred Hitchcock’s 1960 black-and-white classicPsychois one of the most compelling horror films ever.
Few films in the genre are as culturally significant and iconic as this eerie masterpiece.
Although it’s not the first slasher.
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That technically goes toMichael Powell’sPeeping Tom, which premiered a few months before this.
It will probably continue to influence many more slashers well into the next several decades.
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It Really Tested The Hays Code
Psychowas quite controversial when it came out.
It might seem a little tame by some of today’s horror films, butPsychoreally had grit.
Indeed, Hitchcock’sPsychowasgenuinely unafraid of what it wanted to show.
Like so many great horror movies,music is key to establishing the mood and instilling fearwithin the audience.
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However, his work here is one of his all-time greatest.
It proves the best horror movies go out finishing strong.
Even today, it can leave new audiences holding their breaths during some of its more intense moments.
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Mediocre acting can sink any film, no matter if everything else comes together.
Here, the performances are truly incredible to see.
There’s no weak link in this cast.
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They are all A-list stars who were some of the biggest names at the time.
His performance and the other ones really makePsychoso rewatchable.
Is it the performances, the acting?
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Or is the shocking part whereMarion Craen meets her unexpected demisewhile taking a shower?
Truly, the iconic shower scene isthe most recognizable moment fromPsycho.
Despite happening briefly, this memorable scene is a groundbreaking piece of cinematic art.
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It’s perfectly edited, full of innovative camera angles, and a shining example of great cinematography.
However,Psychocontinues to be one of the best examples of skills as a filmmaker.
It’s even cited asone of the most perfectly directed horror moviesever made.
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No one can just walk in around the halfway mark and suddenly get the whole picture.
It’s amazing how one film could forever alter how we go to the movies today.
This idea not only created a better moviegoing experience but it changed how theaters operate.
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It’s amazing how one film could forever alter how we go to the movies today.
Truly,few other movies have been quite as groundbreaking and monumentally game-changingas this one.
The fans agree it gets more enjoyable the more times it’s seen.
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NEXT:Every Alfred Hitchcock Horror Movie, Ranked
