'Greatest horror film of all time' is now streaming for free

For Anthony Perkins, who brought Norman Bates to life in Alfred Hitchcock's 1960 masterpiece, Psycho, the film's enduring impact is no surprise. The classic horror picture, which many regard as the greatest horror film of all time, is now streaming for free on BBC iPlayer. Adapted from a novel by Robert Bloch, Psycho revolutionized the horror genre, influencing generations of filmmakers, including John Carpenter and Brian De Palma.

Psycho's influence on modern horror cannot be overstated. Released in 1960, the film polarized audiences, leaving many traumatized by its then-shocking level of nudity, violence, and lurid plot twists. Critics of the time were appalled, but the film's reputation has only grown since. Today, it boasts a 97% Fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes, with The Guardian hailing it the best horror film of all time in a 2010 retrospective. Variety's 2024 listicle ranked it third, behind The Exorcist and The Texas Chain Saw Massacre.

The film's success can be attributed to Hitchcock's impeccable direction, tone, and acting performances. CineXpress praises the black-and-white classic as a masterclass in directing, tone, and acting, while Los Angeles Times calls it one of Hitchcock's most brilliantly directed shockers. Co-star John Gavin later claimed he was terribly disturbed by the film he made. Home viewers share the positive sentiment, contributing to its 95% positive score from audiences online.

Psycho has influenced many horror classics, including Halloween and Dressed to Kill. It spawned three film sequels, with Perkins reprising his iconic role as Norman Bates. In 1999, auteur Gus Van Sant remade the film, although the shot-for-shot approach did little to win over doubting audiences. The film's legacy extends beyond the screen, with its themes and motifs continuing to captivate audiences.

While opinions may vary, Psycho's influence and impact on the horror genre are clear. As audiences continue to stream the film for free on BBC iPlayer, it's clear that its importance will only continue to grow. Whether you're a horror aficionado or just discovering the film for the first time, Psycho is a must-watch classic that will leave you looking at showers in a whole new light.

As I watch Psycho for the umpteenth time, I'm struck by its timeless themes of trauma, motherhood, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy. It's a film that continues to disturb and captivate audiences in equal measure. With its influence extending far beyond the horror genre, Psycho is a cultural touchstone that will continue to reverberate for generations to come.