TEHRAN – “Psycho”, a 1960 American horror film produced and directed by Alfred Hitchcock, will go on screen at the Arasbaran Cultural Center in Tehran on Wednesday. 

The screening will be followed by a review session by Iranian critics Kurosh Jahed and Amir Qaderi. 

“Psycho” revolutionized the horror genre and set the stage for future suspenseful films to come.

The story follows Marion Crane, a young woman who is tired of her mundane life and decides to steal money from her employer to start a new life with her boyfriend. In an attempt to escape and make her dream a reality, Marion ends up stopping for the night at the Bates Motel, owned by the peculiar and charming Norman Bates and his mother. The film instantly captivates viewers when Marion is murdered in the infamous shower scene by an unseen assailant, changing the trajectory of the film entirely.

The search for Marion's killer becomes the focus of the film, causing detectives to become involved in uncovering the culprit. The nuances of the different personalities and relationships between mother and son, Norman Bates's charming façade, and the motive behind the murder of Marion unfold, leading to a shocking conclusion that leaves audiences questioning their own sense of morality.

One of the most notable aspects of "Psycho" is its score, composed by Bernard Herrmann. The screeching strings that accompany the infamous shower scene are iconic and have become synonymous with suspense and horror. The film's cinematography, especially during the shower scene, is also noteworthy. 

In its time, "Psycho" was considered groundbreaking, and it redefined the horror and suspense genre; it has since become a cultural masterpiece that continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences worldwide. With its compelling characters, plot twists, and memorable score, "Psycho" remains a testament to Hitchcock's genius and mastery in the art of filmmaking.

The characters of Norman Bates and his mother are also significant cultural figures. Bates, portrayed by Anthony Perkins, is a complex character, charming yet also deeply disturbed. His mother, who never appears on-screen, is a symbol of a manipulative and controlling parent that has become a trope in pop culture.

SAB/