Psycho (1960) Image Analysis - Birds of Prey

In this scene from Psycho (1960), we see Marion and Norman in the back office of the Bates Motel. This scene gives the audience an insight into what could happen and develops the idea that Norman would kill his victims and use his taxidermy on them leaving the audience to predict the future of Marion. When looking at the Birds of Prey in the background of the mise-en-scene, we can see that they are directed at Marion, which gives hints to us that she is the target of Norman. When reviewing the sound on this scene, it’s a quiet and tense echo, an example of subtle parallel music. Behind Norman, we can see the painting of the Rape of Lucretia (a famous historical painting). This is important as it is the painting that covers the spy-hole that is used to spy on Marion. It connotes sexuality and links in with what Norman is thinking regarding his sexual feelings for Marion.