Westport Country Playhouse’s classic film series will present Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho,” a landmark psychological horror film from 1960 that redefined the genre, on Friday, October 10, at 7 p.m. The evening is hosted by Mark Shanahan, Playhouse artistic director, who will offer pre- and post-show insight.
“As Halloween season rolls in, join me at the Playhouse as we check in to the Bates Motel for a special screening of ‘Psycho’,” said Shanahan. “I’ll kick things off with a pre-show ‘treasure hunt’ of details to watch for. After the film we’ll gather for a lively post-show chat to make sure you never look at this wonderfully devilish classic the same way again. From behind-the-scenes stories and Hitchcockian lore to hidden moments you may have missed, we’ll dive into why this film has been scaring us silly since 1960.”
The plot follows Marion Crane (Janet Leigh), who embezzles money and seeks refuge at the secluded Bates Motel, run by the enigmatic Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins). What begins as a suspenseful encounter soon spirals into a chilling tale of deception and madness, culminating in one of the most iconic scenes in cinematic history.
Shanahan, a dedicated Hitchcock scholar and fan, taught a course on Hitchcock at Fordham University for over 21 years on Monday nights when the theater was dark. He is always eager to share his love for the movies of this most celebrated director. Whether you’re a first-time viewer or long-time Hitchcock aficionado, this night promises to dive into just some of the wonderful anecdotes, storytelling techniques, and signature cinematic details that make Alfred Hitchcock the Master of Suspense.
“I love getting together for these Playhouse movie nights and I’m thrilled whenever I get to share my passion for classic films with all of you,” Shanahan added. “If you came to my talks on ‘Rear Window’ or ‘Jaws,’ you know how much fun it is to revisit a classic with fresh eyes. And if you’ve seen ‘Psycho’ before – bring a friend who hasn’t, and watch them light up (or jump out of their seat!). After all, this is ‘Psycho,’ the granddaddy of modern horror movies from the Master of Suspense, himself.”
Running time is 108 minutes; rated R. Tickets are $20 each. General admission; seating unreserved.
Click here to purchase tickets.
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