Socio-Cultural Influences in Psycho

Psycho says quite a lot about the culture it was a part of. During the 1950's, the film industry faces a lot of outside influence. America was under a "Red Scare" and the fear of Communismand a Communist takeover was a very real fear. America feel into a state of paranoia and those once able the be trusted were under questioning. People were accusing their very own neighbors of invisible crimes and tension was in the air. This both conciously and subconciously fell onto the film industry. Films began basing themes on conquering communist beliefs and ideals. Some focused on the cultural shift itself. Psycho falls into this very category. Throughout the film we are faced with the character of Norman Bates. Who is a seemingly innocent. He seems like a normal guy. He may have a view mommy issues but other than that he seems overall stable. As we venture through the movie however, we find out that that is not the case.


Norman gives a front and appears to be a kind helpful person, but deep down he is a pychotic killer. This shadows the very theme of the paranoia spread throughout the states at the time. It is a story with a bigger picture. It conveys the theme that although someone or something seems safe and alright, there may always be another side to them or it that is generally unseen. To keep it simple, "Dont trust anyone". Thats one of the big pictures Psycho conveys that is directly relatable to the time period

As a part in the evolution of a genre, Psycho portrays a primitive style of work. It is the first of its kind and acts as a framework for future films in the thriller/ horror genre. Many aspects of the film helped influence future films in the genre. The plot twist at the end was new for its era and was noted by many other directors. Its evident in future works and films.  

 





Although shadowing american culture and political issues, Psycho is able to work as an international film with messages that transfer to any culture or country. IT represents aspects of American society but can be brought back to larger, vaguer issues that are internationally felt. Its audience can be virtually anybody. Its a film that can be enjoyed by all walks of life. Its has no time set purpose and can be a timeless film. All this together greatly attributes to the overall sucess of the picture as a whole.