Psycho 1960

Overview

The 1960 film Psycho is an American horror film produced and directed by Alfred Hitchcock. The screenplay, written by Joseph Stefano, is based on the 1959 novel by Robert Bloch. The film stars Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Vera Miles, John Gavin and Martin Balsam. The plot centers on an encounter between an on-the-run embezzler and the manager of a motel, Norman Bates, who cares for his housebound mother. Hitchcock maintained control over distribution and marketing after self-financing much of the production. The film premiered in New York City and was made on a budget of $800,000, with the Bates Motel and mansion built on the back lot at Universal. The film is loosely based on real-life murders and has become one of Hitchcock's masterpieces. The release strategy for Psycho broke every Hollywood convention, showcasing Hitchcock's unique approach to filmmaking.