Remarkable.

Rating: 10/10 (1 July 2001)

When Saul Bass' opening credits begin to roll (combined with Bernard Herrmann's legendary score), you know you're in for a treat. However, the first half an hour of "Psycho" can get slightly tedious as it mostly consists of Janet Leigh driving a car. But as soon as she reaches The Bates Motel, the atmosphere increases to an electrifying level.

"Psycho" made an enormous impression on me the first time I saw it (I was just 12). Luckily I had no idea about the twist in the end because it would have ruined the whole thing. Although the movie relies much on Hitchcock's innovative use of clever camera angles, its greatest asset is Anthony Perkins' outstanding performance that simply cannot be praised enough.

As some others have pointed out, the casting of John Gavin as Leigh's boyfriend was a terrible choice, but I believe Hitchcock wasn't very pleased with him either. Gavin's practically nonexistent screen appeal reminds me of those anemic actors in "Strangers on a Train". Can't believe he was to become the new James Bond until Sean Connery was lured back, thankfully!
Regardless of that minor flaw, "Psycho" has earned its status in the history of cinema. It's a remarkable achievement within Hitchcock's career and an impressive work of art whose impact multiple viewings can't wear off.