A Tough Month for Hitchcock Fans
August is shaping up to be a disappointing month for Alfred Hitchcock enthusiasts and horror movie lovers. Several films from the legendary director will be leaving Netflix, including one of his most significant works, Psycho. This classic slasher film from 1960 is set to depart from the streaming platform on August 1, which means fans have only a few days left to enjoy this groundbreaking movie that has transformed the horror genre for over 50 years.
The Impact of Psycho
Without giving away any spoilers—because let’s face it, if you haven’t seen it by now, you really should—Psycho tells the story of Marion Crane. She’s a secretary who steals a large sum of money to escape her mundane life and start fresh with her lover. Unfortunately, she makes a fateful stop at a creepy roadside motel with a hidden dark past.
Despite mixed reviews when it was first released, Psycho became a commercial success for Paramount Pictures. Today, many filmmakers and fans regard it as one of the most influential horror films ever made. It was the second highest-grossing film of 1960 and even earned four Academy Award nominations. That said, the Academy’s bias against horror films meant that Hitchcock didn’t win the Best Director Oscar for it, much to the disappointment of fans and critics alike.
A Groundbreaking Film
When you think about slasher films, Psycho often comes to mind, and rightfully so. It’s considered one of the first in the subgenre of slasher horror. Many also argue that Michael Powell’s Peeping Tom, which released in the same year, deserves a share of that credit. Although Peeping Tom didn’t gain the instant acclaim that Psycho did, its innovative use of POV shots placed the audience in the killer’s shoes in a groundbreaking way.
Hitchcock’s Psycho laid the groundwork for various tropes that are now staples in horror films, such as the iconic murder weapon and the moral dilemmas faced by victims. This unique storytelling style didn’t become mainstream until the mid-1970s, with films like Black Christmas and The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. Nevertheless, Hitchcock’s masterpiece established a strong foundation for modern horror.
The Lasting Legacy of Psycho
The influence of Psycho reaches far beyond its initial release. Today, many contemporary horror movies mirror its high body counts, themes of punishment for immoral behavior, and the suspense of keeping the killer’s identity a secret until the end. The film is so esteemed that it even spawned an entire franchise, with sequels that many fans still enjoy.
As August approaches, it’s a good time to rewatch or discover Psycho if you haven’t seen it yet. As it departs Netflix, remember the film’s role in shaping the horror genre as we know it today. With its chilling atmosphere, unforgettable performances, and innovative direction, Psycho remains a significant part of cinematic history and a must-watch for any serious film buff.
If you’re part of the crowd that appreciates Hitchcock’s groundbreaking techniques in filmmaking, make sure you catch Psycho on Netflix before it’s too late. You won’t regret diving into this classic that continues to inspire filmmakers and thrill audiences even decades later.
