| Psycho IV (1990) |
Radio talk show host Fran Ambrose is holding a phone-in discussion about matricide as part of her nightly slot. She begins by talking to a current offender, Raymond Linette and Dr Richmond (Norman's psychiatrist, played by Simon Oakland in the original film), when suddenly a mysterious character named "Ed" calls in, wanting to share some secrets about his mother. Details of his past life are gradually revealed, leading Dr Richmond to put two and two together and discover that the mystery caller is really Norman Bates. The psychiatrist is horrified that Fran should go on questioning "a psychopathic killer" without prefessional help. After a brief tete a tete, Richmond leaves, causing Fran to soldier on in her own inimitable style, getting closer to the truth about Norman Bates... Even from the outset Hitchcock established Norman as a somewhat sympathetic character, being dominated by "an almost maniacal woman" (from the Psycho trailer).This is Norman as he should be, leading a normal life, alebeit 30 years older. With a screenplay once again written by Joseph Stephano, this is how a prequel should be written. Although only a TV movie, this is a fine return to form for Anthony Perkins, who sadly died of pneumonia two years after making this film. Despite his cries of "I may be well, but I'm not cured", on a personal note it's nice to see Norman finally married, as it means that he's ultimately free, is leading his own life, and is capable of functioning as an independent, social human being. |
| Directed by Mick Garris Cast Tony Perkins - Norman Bates CCH Pounder - Fran Ambrose Henry Thomas - young Norman Olivia Hussey - Norma Warren Frost - Dr Leo Richmond Kurt Paul - Ramond Linette Donna Mitchell - Connie Thomas Schuster - Chet Rudolph |
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