Southport Magazine

This summary sounds like a boring drama with men in suits and a mother forcing her son to vacuum motel rooms all day! I think we all know better than that! Back in 1960 when people first saw this movie they were horrified!

I have seen this movie a number of times. I bet you would think that with the introduction of so many gory, special effect packed, horror flicks that this one would offer not even one chill bump. Well, you would be wrong. I love this movie! It is still so fun to watch. It still has me on the edge of my seat one minute and hiding behind a pillow the next.

Lets just talk about Anthony Perkins (Norman Bates) for a moment. He is small in stature; he has a young baby face and talks so soft and sweet. He is gentle and kind. People in Norman’s town know him and trust him. Yet, Anthony Perkins does such a great job of embracing the silent calm and taking his time. The lack of drama and sound is what makes this film so terrifying! That and the craziness you think you see in his eyes every now and then. He is brilliant!

Janet Leigh (Marion Crane) is perfect at being paranoid and anxious. I had to keep reminding myself to breathe! She had me on the edge of my seat and a couple of times looking over my shoulder! This movie is a great date night film. Having someone to hold on to and exhale with occasionally makes it fun!

If you are not interested in gross horror movies but want to get into the Halloween spirit, see this movie. It is perfect for you! It’s the time of year for chill bumps!

Rating

Overall- 5 out of 5

Shrieks- 2 out of 5