1. Narrative Devices in Hitchcock’s: Psycho
Make notes on the Narrative devices used in Hitchcock’s classic thriller: Psycho.
For each question use specific examples from the text.
What gets the story going – what codes motivate the main characters
into action?
How does he use the camera to manipulate the audiences point of
view?
Is the narration of the film Restricted or Omniscient?
How does he use the camera to disorient the audience?
How does he use Enigma codes and Action codes to drive the plot
forward and also make the audience ask questions and build tension?
How can we apply Todorov’s theory of Narrative (five stages) to the
film? (Does the film meet our expectations or does Hitchcock
challenge us with Red Herrings or MacGuffins?)
How does Hitchcock challenge and surprise the audiences
expectations in regards to the role of characters (think about Propp’s
character types)?
What is this film all about? Think about the themes and Levi Strauss’
Binary Oppositions.
Evaluate the overall visual impact of the film. How is camera and editing used to build tension and make this a chilling
thriller? Why has he decided to shoot the movie in Black & White?