Psycho x Shutter Island: "That's the Kafkaesque genius of it"

If noir is defined as a genre featuring ‘cynicism, fatalism, and moral ambiguity’, neo-noir revamps and evolves similar elements according to the needs of contemporary cinema. Inspired by the noir director Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho (1960), Martin Scorcese also seems to borrow heavily from noir screenplay and cinematography in Shutter Island (2010). Using interesting visual cues, monumental climax, unbalanced framing and thematic motifs of identity problem, the films skillfully blur the lines between good and evil to build a baffling crescendo. In awe of the highly enthralling cinematic capabilities of both the films, we could not help but spot a few similarities between the perplexing and indulgent tonality of these masterpieces. Read on for more revelation!

Long-Distance Shots - fatal settings

The black and white background of Psycho lends an unsettling aura to the film which is quite effective in bringing out the dark themes of noir settings. On the other hand, the still from Shutter Island warrants more attention and a sinister feeling gradually overtakes your mind. The directors intended to show these two landmarks as something distant and mysterious yet intriguing, a common trope in dark films. The viewers are presented with long-distance shots to alienate them from the structures making these significant to both the cinematography and narrative. Coupled with suspenseful music in such eerie frames, the films successfully fuel your curiosity.

Love and Attraction - an underlying theme

The initial confrontation between Marion and Norman Bates is marked by the sudden change in his expressions which portrays the sense of discomfort experienced by him upon being asked to share a room with Marion—who he was attracted to. The heightened tension and intriguing chemistry between them sets the stage for the rest of the story. The shot below is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and impactful scenes of Shutter Island. Captivating and heart-wrenching at once, the shot gives us a glance at the emotional baggage that Ted is carrying while the softer tone of lighting reveals his vulnerable mindset. Scorsese’s depiction of romance in this film strikes a chord with one’s heart for melancholic temperament that unconventionally compliments the dark and tragic theme.

The Mystery Behind the Enigmatic Close-up Shots

The amplified character reactions using specific camera techniques is something you definitely cannot miss! The directors unearth the world of endless delusions, darkness and insanity through the lenses of Daniels and Bates. In the first frame, a subtle interplay of light and shadow symbolises the dilemma and state of unrest that engulfs the protagonist. Bates’ wicked grin gives a steadily escalating sense of foreboding while the shot unveils an entirely different trait of his personality, something akin to the elements of mystery and fear. An eye angle shot has been employed in both the images to capture the dramatic appeal of the scenes which provides a deeper insight into the baffling minds of these characters—further unfolding their complex layers and intricate details of their psyche.

Both Scorsese and Hitchcock spin a web of suspense, paranoia and alienation to capture your senses and imagination in a cinematic whirlwind which keeps you at the edge of your seat all the time. The gripping storyline, the art deco, and the soundtrack are so compelling that it's almost impossible for the audience to not list these movies in their favourite thriller category. We highly recommend you indulge in the riveting experience of watching these films for a mind-boggling ride of mystery and madness!