PROJECT 2 

Samantha Painter

Dr. Hammett

Composition II

April 20, 2024

Hitchcock's Ideas vs the Oklahoma Prison System 

     "Alfred Hitchcock (born August 13, 1899, London, England—died April 29, 1980, Bel Air, California, U.S.) was an English-born American motion-picture director whose suspenseful films and television programs won immense popularity and critical acclaim over a long and tremendously productive career." (Barson 1) Alfred Hitchcock, a highly influential and iconic filmmaker/producer, highlights certain ideas in his film “Psycho”. Out of all the films by Hitchcock one stands out in comparison to the prison system.   “Psycho” centers on the complexity of human psychology and the thin line between sanity and madness. Through the main character,  Norman Bates, Hitchcock explores themes of identity and the effects of trauma on the human mind. The film portrays Bates as a sympathetic character struggling with mental illness and the influence of his overbearing mother. Additionally, "Psycho" critiques societal norms and expectations, particularly regarding gender roles and sexuality, while also serving as a chilling examination of the darker aspects of human nature. Ultimately, the film suggests that beneath the facade of normalcy lies a realm of psychological turmoil and hidden desires.

     Hitchcock grew up with strict parents.  His father once got him locked up in a cell “to give Alfred a fear of enclosed spaces and a strong concern for wrongful imprisonment, both of which would figure in his later work.” (Barson 1). He would be able to directly relate to the prisoners in Oklahoma’s prison system because of this trauma. Hitchcock would have believed the confinement and isolation of the Oklahoma prison system to have Profound effects on inmates' mental well-being because of the confinement and Isolation: In both "Psycho" and the prison system, there's a sense of confinement and isolation. In the film, Norman Bates is trapped in his psychological prison, unable to escape the influence of his mother. Similarly, inmates in the Oklahoma prison system may experience confinement and isolation, both physically and psychologically, which can have dangerous effects on their mental health. Because of how Hitchcock portrays these themes in his works it is logical to conclude he would agree that the prison system is unhealthy mentally as several prisoners are wrongfully accused and a majority are confined and isolated.  

     Hitchcock grew up in London. The area was once haunted by the notorious serial killer known as Jack the Ripper, talk of whom was still current in Hitchcock’s youth two decades later. Hitchcock was known later for his film "The Lodger: A Story of the London Fog  "A London man (Ivor Novello) is accused of being a Jack the Ripper-like killer and finds it nearly impossible to prove his innocence. The film became his first hit and also was the first film in which he made his trademark cameo appearance." (Barson 1) Hitchcock's fascination with crime and suspense, perhaps influenced by the Jack the Ripper lore, resonates in his films, like "The Lodger," where innocence is questioned amid a shadow of suspicion. Similarly, the Oklahoma prison system's history of high-profile cases could offer another layer of intrigue and tension, reflecting societal anxieties and injustices, themes Hitchcock often explored.

Norman Bates: “A boy’s best friend is his mother.” This line embodies the complex power dynamic between Norman and his mother, where her influence over him is profound and controlling. This quote highlights the power dynamic between Norman Bates and his domineering mother, suggesting a complex relationship where the mother holds significant influence over her son. Hitchcock would probably comment on the power struggle and power dynamic of the Oklahoma prison system. “Psycho" delves into the dynamics of power and control, particularly in Norman Bates' relationship with his mother. Similarly, the prison system often involves power struggles among inmates, as well as between inmates and guards. This dynamic can lead to psychological tension and conflict within the prison environment, mirroring the psychological suspense of Hitchcock's film.

     Hitchcock seems to have a strong sense of right and wrong. He writes dark films knowing they will attract attention. “…thrillers seem more politically aware and attuned to their times.” (Glancy 1) Because of how Hitchcock portrays immortality in his films, especially “psycho”. He would likely find the overcrowding of the Oklahoma prison system inhumane. Human Morality Both "Psycho" and the prison system raise questions about human nature and morality. The characters in "Psycho'' grapple with their inner demons and conflicting impulses, while the prison system forces individuals to confront their actions and choices. The film's exploration of the darker aspects of human nature, such as obsession and violence, can resonate with the realities of life within a prison environment.

     Hitchcock would likely write about the inhumane conditions of the Oklahoma prison system. He was known for filming real-world problems in real time.  “Hitchcock chipped in during World War II by making propaganda films for the Allies. He famously shot two short films for the British Ministry of Information about French resistance fighters, and in the summer of 1945, he helped assemble concentration camp footage for an ambitious documentary called “Memory of the Camps.” (Andrews 1). It would be logical to assume Hitchcock would have not only an opinion on such terrible conditions, but he would have a creative way to get his point across. Alfred Hitchcock's exploration of human psychology, power dynamics, and societal norms in films like "Psycho" offers insights into the complexities of a person's mental health. Drawing from his own experiences, Hitchcock delves into themes of confinement, isolation, and the struggle between innocence and suspicion. His cinematic genius not only entertains but also prompts reflection on real-world issues, such as the inhumanity of things like the Oklahoma prison system. Through his eyes, Hitchcock would likely advocate for change and raise awareness about the need for humane treatment within such institutions, echoing his commitment to addressing pressing societal concerns through his art. Undoubtedly the audiences would have a great reaction to his work.