The final episode of Bates Motel, titled “The Cord,” aired on April 24, 2017, and provided a tragic yet inevitable conclusion to Norman Bates’ descent into full-blown psychosis and the fulfillment of the iconic Psycho narrative. It culminates in Norman’s ultimate act of violence and the devastating consequences for all involved.
Unraveling “The Cord”: A Synopsis of the Final Episode
“The Cord” meticulously tied up loose ends, bringing the chilling saga of Norman and Norma Bates to a definitive close. The episode’s central conflict revolved around Norman’s increasingly fragile grip on reality, blurring the lines between himself and his Norma persona. He desperately clung to the idealized version of their relationship, violently rejecting any perceived threat to it.
The episode opens with Norman, completely immersed in his Norma identity, preparing a lavish breakfast as if everything were normal. However, the reality of Madeleine Loomis‘ murder weighs heavily, and the town is closing in. Dylan Massett, Norman’s half-brother, returns to White Pine Bay, determined to rescue Norman and bring him to safety, guided by Emma and Sheriff Greene.
Norman’s delusion intensifies throughout the episode. He invites Madeleine’s husband, Sam Loomis, to dinner, fully intending to recreate the Psycho shower scene. However, Norman’s fractured psyche leads him to question his actions, creating a conflict within himself. This internal struggle ultimately leads to his demise.
The climax occurs when Dylan confronts Norman, begging him to seek help. Norman, in his Norma persona, becomes enraged and attacks Dylan. Dylan, with immense sorrow and the weight of responsibility, is forced to shoot Norman, ending his reign of terror.
The episode concludes with a heartbreaking scene of Dylan cradling Norman’s lifeless body, mourning the loss of his brother and the tragic consequences of Norman’s mental illness. It’s a somber reminder of the devastating impact of untreated psychosis and the enduring power of the Psycho narrative.
Deeper Dive: Key Moments and Interpretations
The Significance of “The Cord”
The title “The Cord” is powerfully symbolic. It represents the umbilical cord, the unbreakable bond between Norman and Norma, even in death. This unhealthy attachment fueled Norman’s psychosis and ultimately led to his tragic end. The cord also symbolizes the connection between Norman and reality, a thread that frayed and eventually snapped, leaving him lost in his own fabricated world.
Dylan’s Heartbreaking Choice
Dylan’s decision to kill Norman is arguably the most gut-wrenching moment of the series. He is faced with an impossible choice: save Norman, who is a danger to himself and others, or protect himself and the community. His act is not one of malice, but one of profound love and desperation. He understands that Norman is beyond saving and that his death is the only way to stop the cycle of violence.
The Echoes of Psycho
The episode masterfully weaves in elements from the original Psycho film, creating a sense of dread and inevitability. The appearance of Sam Loomis, the planned shower scene, and Norman’s increasingly erratic behavior all serve as chilling reminders of the iconic film. However, Bates Motel cleverly subverts expectations, offering a more nuanced and empathetic portrayal of Norman’s descent into madness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Bates Motel Finale
Here are some frequently asked questions, designed to offer further insights into the final episode and the series as a whole:
FAQ 1: Why did Dylan kill Norman?
Dylan killed Norman out of necessity. Norman posed a significant threat to himself and others due to his severe psychosis. Dylan recognized that Norman was beyond help and that his actions, however tragic, were the only way to prevent further violence and protect the community. It was an act of mercy and sacrifice, driven by his love for Norman and his understanding of the situation’s gravity.
FAQ 2: Did Norman actually kill Norma?
Yes, Norman did kill Norma. The series explores the events leading up to her death in detail, revealing Norman’s growing resentment and his inability to cope with her attempts to move on with her life. The killing was a pivotal moment that triggered Norman’s full descent into psychosis and the creation of his “Norma” persona.
FAQ 3: Was Norma’s death accidental in the show?
While initially portrayed as possibly accidental, the show clarifies that Norman intentionally killed Norma. He smothered her with a pillow while she slept, fueled by a complex mix of jealousy, possessiveness, and his deteriorating mental state. The series explores the psychological factors that led to this tragic act.
FAQ 4: What happened to Emma and Dylan in the end?
The final scene shows Emma and Dylan together, suggesting they were able to find some semblance of peace and happiness after the traumatic events in White Pine Bay. They represent hope amidst the tragedy, symbolizing the possibility of healing and moving forward even after experiencing profound loss. They also provide a crucial element of grounding and normalcy after Norman’s increasingly bizarre and violent actions.
FAQ 5: How did the series differ from the original Psycho movie?
Bates Motel served as a prequel to Psycho, providing a deeper understanding of Norman’s background and the events that shaped his psyche. It explored his complex relationship with Norma and offered a more sympathetic portrayal of his mental illness. While the series ultimately arrived at the same destination as the film, it took a vastly different route, fleshing out the characters and their motivations.
FAQ 6: Was the show’s ending planned from the beginning?
While the writers knew they were building towards the Psycho narrative, the specifics of the ending evolved throughout the series. They aimed to remain true to the core themes of the original film while also creating a unique and compelling story that explored Norman’s character in depth.
FAQ 7: What was the significance of Madeleine Loomis’ character?
Madeleine Loomis served as a tragic parallel to Norma. She represented the possibility of Norman finding love and connection outside of his obsessive relationship with his mother. However, Norman’s inability to distinguish between Madeleine and Norma led to her murder, solidifying his descent into madness. She also provides direct link back to the original movie.
FAQ 8: Did Freddie Highmore win any awards for his role as Norman Bates?
Yes, Freddie Highmore received widespread critical acclaim for his portrayal of Norman Bates and was nominated for numerous awards, including a Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Actor in a Drama Series. His nuanced and compelling performance was a key factor in the show’s success.
FAQ 9: Where can I watch all the episodes of Bates Motel?
Bates Motel is available for streaming on various platforms, including Peacock and Hulu. You can also purchase episodes or seasons on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and iTunes. Availability may vary depending on your region.
FAQ 10: Why was Norma so controlling of Norman?
Norma’s controlling behavior stemmed from her own traumatic past and her deep-seated insecurities. She sought to protect Norman from the world, fearing that he would be hurt or taken advantage of. Her overbearing nature, while rooted in love, ultimately contributed to Norman’s psychological problems.
FAQ 11: What is the main theme explored in Bates Motel?
The main theme explored in Bates Motel is the devastating impact of unresolved trauma and mental illness. The series delves into the complexities of Norman’s psychosis and the dysfunctional dynamics within the Bates family, highlighting the importance of seeking help and addressing underlying psychological issues. The effects of isolation also play a key role.
FAQ 12: What makes the Bates Motel finale so memorable?
The Bates Motel finale is memorable because it provides a satisfying and emotionally resonant conclusion to the series. It’s a tragic yet inevitable ending that stays true to the spirit of Psycho while also offering a nuanced and empathetic portrayal of Norman Bates. The powerful performances, especially from Freddie Highmore and Vera Farmiga, further enhance the episode’s impact. The ending is both heartbreaking and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.