Psycho (1960) first image analysis

This particular snap shot was taken from a scene in Psycho (1960). Peeking through a hole in his wall, the character “Norman Bates” (Anthony Perkins) is representing the “Male Gaze theory” by Laura Mulvey. Looking through this particular hole enabled Norman to watch the character “Marion Crane” (Janet Leigh) undressing. By this, the cinematography shows a point of view shot and the audience get to see through the eye of a pervert and desperate voyeur which automatically makes the spectators feel uncomfortable and as if they shouldn’t be watching. In spite of this, Norman carries on glaring through the small hole he created and the audience are able to distinguish that he gains a pleasure from watching somebody who can’t see him, connoting his psychotic nature. This scene illustrates the sex and taboo theme that is a typical convention of the horror genre.

The diegetic, low key lighting used in this scene is made to create a sinister, morbid effect with the use of chiaroscuro lighting and harsh shadows cast over his face, just leaving the small bit of light that enters through the hole. The close-up shot makes the spectator feel as if they’re within the action and enables more detail to be shown. Within the scene eerie parallel, non-diegetic music is playing along with the action, making the atmosphere more tense and serious.