HAPPY PSYCHO DAY 2024 (12/11)

 

PSYCHO '60 RETURNS TO THE BIG SCREEN

For sixty years, Alfred Hitchcock's film adaptation of Robert Bloch's "Psycho" has endured as one of the greatest thrillers ever to splatter the silver screen. 

That's because the movie, like Bloch's novel, is rich in atmospheric character, even if the film and book hold their differences (in particular when it comes to the physical semblance of beleaguered Norman Bates). It's all okay, because Hitch's movie (thanks to his taut direction and supreme sense of pacing, backed by Joseph Stefano's crackerjack script) captures the deranged core and sadistic structure of Bloch's Ed Gein-inspired fiction.

Now, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of this groundbreaking, cinematic release, Fathom and TCM (courtesy of Fandango) have re-teamed to show the movie again in theaters, Oct 11 & 12 (at varying times at various venues nationwide).

This big-screen revival is an ideal way to celebrate "Psycho'"s impact on popular culture, and it's not only for the aforementioned reasons. The movie holds a shocking climax; a pulse-pounding Bernard Herrmann soundtrack; a jolting, Saul Bass credits sequence; Edward Hopper-ish ambiance; haunting John L. Russell photography; and an engaging, across-the-board cast: Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, John Gavin, Vera Miles, Martin Balsam, John McIntire, Vaughn Taylor, Simon Oakland, John Anderson, Frank Albertson, Mort Mills, Pat Hitchcock and Jeanette Nolan as the voice of Norma Bates, aka Mother. (Even Ted Knight gets a cool cameo.) Every aspect of this one is perfect, which is why "Psycho" is considered one of the irrefutable (and creepiest) creme de la creme.

One might wish to weather the pandemic paranoia and embrace this Paramount (pun intended) presentation. All one needs is a ticket, a mask and a trusty pair of balls, and that's just to get into the theater (wink, wink). From there, Hitch's masterpiece will sever the nerves as it warms the heart with macabre nostalgia. 

"Psycho" is way too good to miss, no matter how many times one has seen it.

HAPPY 60TH, PSYCHO!!!

On September 8, 1960, Alfred Hitchcock's adaptation of Robert Bloch's macabre novel, "Psycho" held its nationwide premiere. Adapted by Joseph "The Outer Limits" Stefano, "Psycho" headlined Janet Leigh, John Gavin, Vera Miles, Martin Balsam and in a career-defining role, Anthony Perkins as Norman Bates.

The production was made with a television crew, and though low-budgeted, "Psycho" brimmed with style and class, abetted by Bernard Hermman's iconic score. 

"Psycho" was such a sensation that it inspired a host of similar films, such as "Homicidal"; "Dementia 13"; "Black Autumn"; and even the ultra-gory "Blood Feast"; in addition to spawning three, official sequels; a remake; a "Twilight Zone"-ish television pilot; the A&E "Bates Motel" cable series; and titles like "Black Christmas"; "Halloween"; and "Friday the 13th".

Beyond a doubt, "Psycho" set the standard for cinematic sadness and madness--and endless, shower-scene scares. It has continued to shine with the test of time and will no doubt continue for as long as the horror genre thrives. 

Bates Returns for the Fifth and Final Stab!!!

It's been quite a psychotic ride for A&E's "Bates Motel": a parallel path to the acclaimed "Psycho" literary and film franchises. At times, it's been more of a mad soap opera than all-out horror. There's no doubt that the new-century Norman Bates, played to chilling effect by Freddie Highmore, certainly experienced more success with the ladies (well, at least of a potential sort) than his towering predecessor, portrayed by the legendary Anthony Perkins. I can't say that's necessarily a plus, but for better or worse, it's simply a bloody (pun intended) fact. 

It does appear that the teenage mush has at long last gone bye-bye, which for the sake of the show's lead character, only leaves more demented paths for him to travel. For example, as we begin Season 5, two years have passed, with the endearing but domineering Norma (Vera Farmiga) long defunct, yet lingering as an imaginary specter/Sister Hyde, as well as a preserved corpse. Her haunting presence should give Highmore lots to work with through the new season's inevitable, unsettling scenarios. With this in mind, the set-up could gain an even stronger Hitchcockian slant, along with the appropriate nods to Robert Bloch's novel and sequels. I, for one, would delight in such a blend. 

Also, Marion Crane will make her mythic entrance, this time played by pop-icon Rhianna. Will she arrive early or late in the season? Who can say, outside of those who've fashioned it? For certain, though, fans will be watching with great anticipation.  

I'm confident, too, that viewers will be biting their nails regarding the fates of steadfast Sheriff Romero (Nestor Carbonell); diligent Dylan Massett (Max Thieriot); woeful Caleb Calhoun (Kenny Johnson); faithful Chick Hogan (Ryan Hurst); and conscientious Emma DeCody (Olivia Cook). Where will the madness take them? Will they survive, flee, or...well, this is Norman's world, after all, and so...

Personally, I don't think Season 5 needs to end "Psycho'"s latest incarnation. Perkins made superb use of Norman for four terrific films. There's no reason why after a few years, Highmore couldn't return from, let's say, an institution, supposedly cured and start anew before slipping again. Perhaps we could even see his extended story unfold within a hospital, meeting people, killing them...escaping (maybe running off with his good buddy, Michael Myers, only then to be captured and analyzed by that compassionate crackerjack, Hannibal Lecter--ha,ha). Indeed, for those willing to broaden their minds, the sky's the hellish limit for our precious Hamlet of Horror, but for now, seeing the fruition of his early phases should more than fulfill. 

"Bates Motel: Season 5" commences Monday (Feb 20) at 10 pm.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY 2016!!!