A Brief Analysis of Hitchcock’s Psycho

A Brief Analysis of Hitchcock’s Psycho

Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho is a world renowned thriller which explores a variety of the codes and conventions of the thriller genre. Orchestral, fast paced music is employed from the beginning of the film in order to create discomfort within the audience, making them feel as if they have been thrown in at the deep end, and that they are already in trouble. The orchestral music creates a tense atmosphere. This, combined with the fast pace of the superimposition, is used by Hitchcock in attempt to create an uncomfortable atmosphere within the audience as they have no control over how fast they view the superimposition. The obscurity of the superimposition also explores the conventions of thrillers as it creates an enigma right from the start. 

It soon becomes clear that the entire film has been shot in black and white which serves to highlight the dark tone of the film that is to come, presenting the audience with a reference point regarding the dark personalities of various characters. The use of black and white also connotes a sense of danger as everything becomes less distinct, which in itself creates an obscurity within the shots, therefore the audience are left on the “edge of their seats”, aware that something may be lurking off camera ready to attack. 

After the opening credits, the camera swiftly enters the following scene through the window, which emulates the behaviour of an intruder. This in turn makes the audience feel uncomfortable as it appears as if they are the ones who have crept into the action, when in reality Hitchcock has placed them close up to the scene. This use of editing also creates ta sense of unease due to the fact that the audience enter the scene unexpectedly Consequently any incoming danger they suspect, they will want to warn the protagonist. 

The characters in the scene are also used to display the codes and conventions of a thriller as the woman first introduced is only wearing a bra which carries seductive and lustful connotations, making her appear to be a very sexual woman. This is typical of both the thriller and horror genre and often indicates the first victim of the antagonist as sexually forward female characters are often portrayed as dense and ignorant in turn suggesting they are incapable of dealing with a dangerous situation.