Speaking Volumes | The Hitchcock classic, ‘Psycho,’ turns 60

When one thinks of classic horror, the first name that comes to mind is probably Alfred Hitchcock. The prolific director made over 50 films during his career, such as “The Birds” (1963), “North by Northwest” (1959) and “Dial M for Murder” (1954). His most famous film, however, was “Psycho.” Based on the novel by Robert Bloch, this film is one of the most identifiable in cinematic history and without a doubt Hitchcock’s biggest success and celebrates its 60th anniversary this year.

By the time of the release of “Psycho” in 1960, Hitchcock had already produced and directed more than 40 films, and gained notoriety for several between 1935 through the 1950s. The production of the film was surrounded by controversy, as it seemed too gory for Paramount Studios. Hitchcock made the surprising decision to finance and produce the film himself, resulting in many cost-cutting measures. The most notable being the decision to shoot the film in black and white, even though his previous film, “North by Northwest” was entirely in color.

The film’s stars, Anthony Perkins (Norman Bates) and Janet Leigh (Marion Crane) were paid significantly less than their standard fees, but Hitchcock’s growing notoriety was a draw for both actors to make the film. They also had creative freedom during the film’s development. For example, the scene in which Bates is eating candy corn was entirely improvised by Perkins.

The most famous scene from the movie, and perhaps in all cinematic history, is the shower scene in which Marion is brutally murdered by “Mother.” Hitchcock’s technique of using extreme close-ups lasting very briefly was groundbreaking. The implication of a woman being nude in the shower was very shocking for the age and was the source of much controversy and myth. This scene’s impact on the movie world and audiences is legendary and will prove to stand the test of time.

Many modern-day thriller/horror directors credit Hitchcock as an icon and inspiration, such as Steven Spielberg and M. Night Shymalan. Through their successes and the continued success of Hitchcock’s many films, his legacy and the legacy of “Psycho” will surely continue for another 60 years.

To learn more about Alfred Hitchcock and his legacy, Manatee Libraries has available on DVD the film “Psycho” (1960). Also available on Hoopla is the “Alfred Hitchcock: Master of Suspense” film (1995). Also available for download from Hoopla is the definitive biography, “Alfred Hitchcock: a Life in Darkness and Light” (2010) by Patrick McGilligan.

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Central library: 748-5555; Branch libraries: Braden River: 941-727-6079; Island: 941-778-6341; Palmetto: 941-722-3333; Rocky Bluff: 723-4821; South Manatee: 755-3892.

Speaking Volumes if written by members of the staff at the Manatee County Public Library System. Kimberly Barbour is an assistant supervisor at the South Manatee Library.

This story was originally published June 13, 2020 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Speaking Volumes | The Hitchcock classic, ‘Psycho,’ turns 60."