By Melissa Garza
“I have a lot of affection for Norman Bates and a lot of sympathy. So does the audience, I think. He’s not just a monster. He’s tortured.”- Anthony Perkins
Rarely would an actor be considered a Pioneer of Horror because of a single role. Only when the portrayal changes the face of the genre is the performer worthy of the recognition. Anthony Perkins went beyond that criteria and forever immortalized a character that nearly a half of a century later still inspires countless films. He earned a Golden Globe, an Oscar, and a Star on the Walk of Fame. His acting surpasses the best that today’s greatest has to offer; and the revolutionary film “Psycho” allowed him to showcase his talent, like no other.
Norman Bates is one of the most well known characters of all time. He was the epitome of both good and evil, of light and dark. The opposing nature of human beings dwelled within him and Perkins displayed the emotions brilliantly. Norman was a murderer with such a softness and genuineness that even the audience had difficulty holding him accountable.
One couldn’t help but wonder what Bates would have been if not for the amazing talent of Perkins. That question was answered. The 1998 flop/remake of “Psycho” showed how empty, shallow and contrite Norman could have been. The only positive quality the picture offered, was reminding everyone how irreplaceable and uncomparable Anthony Perkins truly is.
It wasn’t the movie that made Perkins, but vice versa. The naiveté and timidity of Norman connected him with the viewers. He gained an understanding with them, and ultimately an alliance. That alliance carried through the three sequels. Whether Norman was attempting to stay sane or falling into madness, the audience was on his side. When it appeared as though he may find love, the viewers root for his welfare. He is the killer with a heart. The guilt that Norman felt was relayed so realistically by Perkins, that instead of being angry, the moviegoer only felt compassion. Perkins insight to the character, and expression of that insight made Norman Bates. It was because of this depth that possibly the most compelling character of all time was created.
So many slashers and whodunits followed “Psycho.” They mimicked the motive, the ending, or the level of insanity. None however have ever come close to the emotions invoked by the film that started it all. It isn’t because it was the first, but merely because of how perfect Anthony played the part. In a way, it’s sad that Perkins was never able to escape the character of Norman. He was typecast in similar roles. Still, if one had to be remembered for a single performance, there isn’t one to be prouder of.
It would be of great difficulty to think of another movie where the villain found more sympathy than the victims. Anthony Perkins brought to life a character that did just that. Those he killed weren’t annoying nor did they necessarily deserve to die. Still, Norman remained sympathetic and even blameless. Perkins captured the kindness of the character, and won the audience over with it. He never lost the sensitivity and therefore never lost the fans.
The ending revelation of the first wasn’t spectacular merely because Norman was outed as the killer. The surprise isn’t the factor that stands the test of time. Instead it is the message that Perkins’ performance offers. Not before nor since has a horror film conveyed such a statement. The good guys and the bad guys were merely different sides of the same coin. Unlike today, the twist at the end, wasn’t just something intended to shock the audience. It wasn’t a dramatic but mindless conclusion. Instead, it ended with a critical examination of the dualistic nature of the mind. Without the talent of Perkins this would have been lost. It was his mannerisms and reactions that sold the story.
Without a doubt, the atmosphere, the energy, and the absolute brilliance of “Psycho” fell on the shoulders of the star. Hitchcock’s masterpiece would not have been nearly as successful or renowned without Perkins. To say he owned Norman Bates downplays the significance of his performance. Despite who wrote the dialogue or who dreamed up the character, Perkins created Norman, and the horror world will forever be grateful for it.
Anthony Perkins is a Pioneer of Horror who brought a level of integrity and intelligence to the role. He will forever be remembered and honored for the vast contribution of Norman Bates.