Critcal Analysis of Psycho essays

Critcal Analysis of Psycho essays PSYCHO: A Fabulous blend of stylistic elements Psycho, by Alfred Hitchcock, is one of the most famous films in the history of cinema. Alfred Hitchcock, in this film, challenged many of the conventions of Hollywood film- making and cinema-going prevalent at that time. In an unprecedented move Alfred Hitchcock asked all cinemas not to admit any person after the movie started. This was unheard of in 1960, when people wandered in and out of the cinema whenever they felt like it. Not only the cinema-going experience of Psycho different, audience were also confronted with a film that broke many cultural taboos and challenged the censors. Alfred Hitchcock provided a number of shocking images: Janet Leigh in brassiere, Janet Leigh stabbed to death naked in the shower, Norman Bates as a person having a split personality disorder, and the first ever flushing toilet shown on the screen. During the period from the late 1920s to the late 1950s, films made usually revolved around the story and the stars, and were usually heavy with dialo gue. Psycho offered the audience offered an experience that was much more emotional and visceral. Audiences were caught up in a roller coaster of shock, surprise and suspense based on image, editing and sound. The film has a very direct, emotional impact. Psycho had a budget of $800,000 and a 36-day shooting schedule. No one was prepared for the firestorm the film created. .... No one could have predicted how powerfully Psycho tapped into the American subconscious. Fainting. Walkouts. Repeat visits. Boycotts. Angry phone calls and letters. ............Only the American public knew what a monster Hitchcock had spawned.(REBELLO, 1989, p.162) Psycho received a handful of Oscar nominations; Janet Leigh for Best Supporting Actress; John Rus...