Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho is a timeless classic thriller that resonated with audiences when it was released over 50 years ago. Now, creators Carlton Cuse and Kerry Ehrin bring you Bates Motel, a modern day prequel to the contemporary classic, in which viewers are taken back to the young adult days of Norman Bates. The toxic relationship between Norma and Norman Bates is very well developed, so much so that we begin to sympathize with them. Vera Farmiga does a brilliant portrayal of Norma, an overbearing, protective and controlling mother who holds on to her son every step of the way. Norman, played by Freddie Highmore, is exposed to violence and isolation that brings out his dark and sadistic side, one that he yet doesn’t realize is taking over. As his dissociative personality begins to form, his mother is unable to give him the much needed help he deserves. As for the story line, viewers must be warned that there will be a few disturbing scenes — after all, Norman Bates’ past needs to have a solid basis to explain his future psychopathic behavior.
Fans of Psycho will love the season’s ten episodes, which unravel murders, twisted plots and new characters at every turn. Unbelievably, viewers may begin to empathize with Norman as the 17-year-old boy is smothered by his mother and ignored by many at school. It’s hard to believe that young Norman turns out to be the most historical and frightening fictional figure we have ever seen – and for that we must credit the cast and creators of the show. Alfred Hitchcock would surely agree, right?
Other new DVD releases this week include The Bling Ring, World War Z, The Collection and Behind the Candelabra. ~ Marriska Fernandes