Psycho Economic Context

Question 1

How was Psycho produced and distributed?

Answer 1

To produce Psycho, Hitchcock employed his own production company “Shamley Productions” to finance the film, to convince Paramount Pictures to distribute it.

Question 2

Main producers/creators of Psycho

Answer 2

Director and producer: Alfred Hitchcock

Question 3

What does a film producer do?

Answer 3

• Oversees all aspects of a film’s production process: supervises, manages business/logistics etc

Question 4

What was Psycho’s budget?

Answer 4

• 807,000 USD

Question 5

What did Psycho gross?

Answer 5

• 32 Million USD

Question 6

How did Hitchcock cut costs in Psycho’s production?

Answer 6

• Refused directors fee in lieu of 60% of ownership of the film
• Only hired one well known star, Janet Leigh, for a small amount of time

Question 7

What was the general audience reaction to the movie ‘Psycho’ upon its release in 1960?

Answer 7

The audience was shocked and terrified, with many expressing their fear and surprise at the film’s intense scenes.

Question 8

True or False: Critics universally praised ‘Psycho’ when it was first released.

Answer 8

False

Question 9

What innovative marketing strategy did Alfred Hitchcock use for ‘Psycho’?

Answer 9

Hitchcock insisted that no one be allowed into the theater after the film had started, creating a sense of urgency and exclusivity.

Question 10

Which aspect of ‘Psycho’ did audiences find particularly groundbreaking?

Answer 10

The film’s portrayal of violence and its psychological depth, especially in the character of Norman Bates.