Psycho 1960 Still Image Analysis 3

This scene shows the introduction of the Bates Motel. It uses a low expressionist angle to show the building as being big and imposing, suggesting the prominence of the building in the film. Marion is seen in the bottom of the image she is shown as being small in comparison to the setting and the mise-en-scene. Marion is also partially hidden by the car; this enforces the idea that she is fragile and lacks security. The low key lighting used in this scene helps to enhance the eerie feeling that is given off by the building, this lighting style also conforms to the diegesis of night-time leaving the audience feeling apprehensive.

In the scene rain is heavily falling connoting misery; this style of pathetic fallacy can be seen in many Hitchcock films and is part of his auteur style (Andrew Sarris). This scene is also a good representation of how Hitchcock used cinematography (particularly in PSYCHO) to create a disconcerting atmosphere.