is it mystery? is it suspense? no! it's PSYCHO!

Rating: 9/10 (20 February 2004)

Alfred Hitchcock, born in 1899, is known as the `Master of Suspense.' Becoming a director in 1925, he has been entertaining people ever since. One of the classics, and probably close to the most widely known, is Psycho, made in 1960.
Now putting into fact that they didn't have much to work with concerning special effects in those times, this movie may not be the most frightening ever. But, special effects aren't what Hitchcock was all about. He was a man of mystery and always wanted to keep tension between the viewer and the film. He could create the perfect scene by moving the angle of the shot just one certain way. Filming techniques and plot seem to be his forte.

In Psycho, one method that Hitchcock used to create a dramatic scene is the placement of the camera shots. For instance, in a "get away," he would film the character while they were in a car, then show a scene out of the car. He repeated this same idea, coming closer to their face every time it re-entered the car...so close that it almost makes the viewer uncomfortable.

Another aspect of Hitchcock's movies that makes them very memorable are the sets and the way that the characters move, talk and act. For example, a character may stutter, fidget, or talk fast when presented with certain situations. With sets and designs, he always tried to play with the look and feel of a scene. The mansion that was used in this movie created a very mysterious aura around it. This could be because of the placement, which was, on top of a dark hill with many ascending steps. It could also be because the lighting was always dim and never really showed the details, creating wonder and mystery.
Obtaining an overall 8.6/10 stars, this movie is clearly brilliantly made, being loved by millions. With drama, suspense, a good plot and a great director, you've created a masterpiece.