Thrilling & Masterful

Rating: Null/10 (29 May 2001)

Alfred Hitchcock's "Psycho" is so well known for inducing suspense and terror that it is easy to overlook what a great achievement it is in many other respects. It works so well as a thriller because everything fits together perfectly - the directing, acting, and music all help to turn a good story into a great movie.
The plot begins when ... But anyone reading these comments has either (a) seen "Psycho" already, perhaps several times, and thus knows everything that happens, or (b) has not yet seen it, in which case the less you know about the plot, the more you will enjoy it when you do see it. While this is a movie that you can thoroughly enjoy over and over, some of the surprises are especially good if you aren't sure what to expect. So this comment will avoid any plot details at all.
Although "Psycho" is usually remembered as a shocker, there is actually very little violence, and it is not especially graphic. Its effect is maximized by skillful build-up and by the atmosphere that Hitchcock so carefully created. The pacing is masterful, slowly building up the tension and only releasing it when it will have the maximum effect - that is why it creates such a sensation. The main settings - the Bates Motel and the Bates' old house - are perfectly designed to create an atmosphere full of possibilities. (Hitchcock also made a terrific trailer in which he took the viewer on a tour of the house and motel.) And it is not possible to say enough about the famous Bernard Herrmann score, which always fits the mood and action perfectly. The exciting music makes even the opening credits fun to watch.
The fine cast is led by Anthony Perkins, who is simply outstanding in a very challenging role. The movie would not have been quite the same without his underplayed but thoroughly memorable performance. Janet Leigh is also particularly good as the kind of complex, mysterious woman that she excelled at portraying.
All this together makes for one of the greatest of all movies, and a genuine must-see for any fan of quality cinema.