October Film Discussion
Psycho
We had an excellent discussion Monday night after Baz Luhrmann's visually stunning "The Great Gatsby". As John Cleese might say, "And now for something completely different". Next month we will be discussing Alfred Hitchcock's classic thriller "Psycho". The film was quite controversial upon release for both it's violent content and sexual themes and Hitchcock's no late admittance policy at the theater was previously unheard of. "Psycho", along with "Halloween" and "Peeping Tom" helped create the "slasher" film genre and is considered one of the greatest thrillers of all time by film critics and fans alike. It went on to earn four academy award nominations and has been the subject of countless sequels, remakes, and a current hit television show. The film also set a new level of acceptability in violent and sexual content in American films.
Rated R for violence and brief nudity.
Watch & Discuss
This month the film society will engage in discussions about the themes of the movie. The enjoyment of the films we watch can be enhanced by thinking more deeply about them and participating in discussions both online and at our monthly meeting. Everyone is invited to participate in these discussions with us. Please join us and engage in thoughtful discussion right here.
Questions for Discussion
1. Does Hitchcock foreshadow the final reveal at all throughout the film? How does he add to the constant feeling of dread present in the film?
2. Did you find the violence surprisingly tame? Too brutal? Why do you think the film was so controversial?
3. How does Hitchcock use music, sounds, lighting, and camera angles to increase the tension and make the film feel more violent than it is?
4. What films have you seen that have paid homage to scenes in "Psycho"?
Psycho on IMDB: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0054215/
