True horror classic that has not lost the ability to scare.

Rating: Null/10 (23 October 2011)

When this film was released in 1960, it literally took the world by storm. It was received with mixed reviews but tremendous profits at the box office. The world in 1960 had never seen a film like this, and everyone was taken off guard. Watching the film today, I can see why.
Alfred Hitchcock wastes no time in setting up the proper mood for the film, starting right from Saul Bass' title sequence in combination with Bernard Hermann's legendary score. This mood is accomplished by John Russell's eerie black and white cinematography and the seedy set design, in addition to the razor sharp editing by George Tomasini. Anthony Perkins- what else can I say? He manages to make Norman Bates both sympathetic and truly frightening. Janet Leigh also creates a sympathetic character who meets a grisly demise in the legendary shower scene, one of the most recognized scenes in the history of film. Special mention must go to Martin Balsam as the detective who also meets a horrifying death, and Vera Miles and John Gavin as Leigh's sister and boyfriend, respectively, who go to look for her.
I'm not a huge fan of horror films, but this is one I can watch without getting tired of. HIGHLY recommended. 10/10. Followed by three sequels and a shot-for-shot remake (only for the curious).