The answer, deceptively simple on the surface, is that there are five films in the official Psycho franchise: Alfred Hitchcock’s seminal 1960 masterpiece, and four sequels released between 1983 and 1998. However, the story doesn’t end there, as the legacy of Norman Bates has extended to television and even a remake, blurring the lines of what constitutes a true “Psycho movie.”
The Core Five: The Official Psycho Film Series
The following list comprises the only five films considered part of the core Psycho movie franchise, authorized and officially branded under the title:
- Psycho (1960) – Directed by Alfred Hitchcock
- Psycho II (1983) – Directed by Richard Franklin
- Psycho III (1986) – Directed by Anthony Perkins
- Psycho IV: The Beginning (1990) – Directed by Mick Garris
- Psycho (1998) – Directed by Gus Van Sant (a remake of the original)
These are the films that explore the continued story, either directly or indirectly, of Norman Bates and the Bates Motel. While the remake adds another film to the list, it doesn’t expand the original narrative, choosing instead to retell it for a new generation. It’s important to differentiate this from the television series or other inspired works.
Beyond the Core: Psycho Legacy & Inspired Works
While only five films carry the official Psycho title, the impact of Hitchcock’s original masterpiece has spawned numerous inspired works and expanded universes. This includes the prequel television series, Bates Motel, and other films that explore similar themes or borrow elements from the Psycho universe. This is where things get complicated. Determining what truly constitutes a “Psycho movie” hinges on the definition being used. Strictly speaking, only those bearing the Psycho title officially qualify.
Bates Motel: A Prequel Examination
The television series Bates Motel (2013-2017), while deeply rooted in the Psycho universe, is not considered part of the official film series. It serves as a prequel, exploring Norman Bates’s childhood and adolescence with his mother, Norma, and providing context for his eventual descent into madness. Although critically acclaimed and a significant contribution to the Psycho lore, it exists as a separate entity.
Homages and Inspired Films: The Wider Impact
The influence of Psycho extends far beyond the official franchise and Bates Motel. Numerous films have drawn inspiration from Hitchcock’s work, employing similar themes of identity, mental illness, voyeurism, and the unreliable narrator. However, these films, while owing a debt to Psycho, do not constitute additions to the Psycho movie canon.
FAQs: Deep Diving into the Psycho Universe
To further clarify the scope and complexities surrounding the Psycho franchise, here are some frequently asked questions:
FAQ 1: Why did it take so long to make a sequel to Psycho?
Alfred Hitchcock was notoriously protective of his films and reportedly never intended for Psycho to have a sequel. His passing in 1980 paved the way for Universal to revisit the property. The long delay was likely due to the challenge of following up such an iconic and influential film, and finding a story that could plausibly continue Norman Bates’s narrative.
FAQ 2: Are the Psycho sequels any good?
Opinions on the quality of the Psycho sequels are varied. Psycho II is generally considered the best of the sequels, offering a compelling narrative and strong performances. Psycho III and Psycho IV are more divisive, with some appreciating their stylistic choices and exploration of Norman’s psyche, while others find them less satisfying. The 1998 remake is widely considered a failure, criticized for its near-identical recreation of the original without adding anything new.
FAQ 3: Did Anthony Perkins direct Psycho III because he wanted more control over his character?
While Anthony Perkins’s decision to direct Psycho III was likely motivated by a desire to have more input, it’s difficult to ascertain his precise intentions. He was undoubtedly invested in the character of Norman Bates and likely saw directing as a way to shape the narrative and further explore the complexities of the character.
FAQ 4: Is Psycho IV: The Beginning a prequel and a sequel at the same time?
Yes, Psycho IV: The Beginning is both a prequel and a sequel. It features present-day Norman Bates undergoing therapy while flashing back to his childhood with his mother, Norma. This dual narrative structure allows the film to explore Norman’s past while also continuing his story after the events of Psycho III.
FAQ 5: Why was Psycho remade in 1998?
The 1998 remake of Psycho was likely driven by commercial considerations. Hollywood often remakes classic films to appeal to a new generation of audiences and capitalize on established intellectual property. However, the remake was critically panned and failed to achieve commercial success, highlighting the challenges of recreating a masterpiece.
FAQ 6: Does Bates Motel follow the timeline of the Psycho movies?
No, Bates Motel deviates significantly from the timeline established in the Psycho films. The series takes place in the modern day and reimagines Norman and Norma’s story in a contemporary setting. While it draws inspiration from the original film, it creates its own distinct narrative and explores different aspects of their relationship.
FAQ 7: Who owns the rights to the Psycho franchise?
The rights to the Psycho franchise are primarily held by Universal Pictures, the studio that produced and distributed the original film and its sequels. This ownership allows them to control the production and distribution of future Psycho-related projects.
FAQ 8: Will there ever be another Psycho movie?
Given the enduring popularity of the original film and the occasional revival of classic horror franchises, it’s certainly possible that another Psycho movie could be made in the future. However, the critical failure of the 1998 remake serves as a cautionary tale, suggesting that any new Psycho film would need a compelling narrative and a fresh perspective to justify its existence.
FAQ 9: What is the most iconic scene in Psycho?
The most iconic scene in Psycho is undoubtedly the shower scene, which features Marion Crane’s murder. This scene is renowned for its innovative camerawork, suspenseful editing, and shocking violence, and it has become a landmark moment in cinematic history.
FAQ 10: What makes Norman Bates such a compelling character?
Norman Bates is a compelling character because of his complex and disturbed psyche. He is both sympathetic and terrifying, a seemingly ordinary young man struggling with deep-seated mental illness. His duality and the tragic circumstances of his life make him a fascinating and unforgettable figure.
FAQ 11: How did Psycho influence the horror genre?
Psycho had a profound influence on the horror genre by popularizing several key elements, including the slasher subgenre, the psychological thriller, and the use of ordinary settings to create suspense. It also challenged audience expectations and redefined the boundaries of what was considered acceptable on screen.
FAQ 12: Where can I watch the Psycho movies and Bates Motel?
The Psycho movies and Bates Motel are available on various streaming platforms and for purchase on physical media. Availability varies depending on your region and subscription services. Popular streaming options often include platforms like Peacock, Amazon Prime Video, and digital rental services. Always check availability in your specific area.