So, it finally happened. It’s over. The end that many didn’t see coming. As in true Psycho form, you thought you figured it out; then it still gave you a surprise.
If you didn’t watch the final episode of Bates Motel last night, you might want to turn your head.

Like many fans of the show, I cut my horror teeth devouring Hitchcock movies. I have my mom to thank for introducing me to what a real thriller is. Let’s face it, by today’s standards some may find these movies a little tame. I can agree on this on some level, but wait until the story has time to marinate in your brain and then check your shorts.

One of the things that made Psycho such a hit was the element of surprise. It was the first movie that you were not allowed wonder throughout the theater once it started. You sat and watched from beginning to end and then you were asked to keep the ending a secret.  Imagine doing that know. I can’t even glance at a preview without figuring out too much information. For me the movie becomes tainted. Where’s the surprise, the creeps, or anticipation? Having pointed that out, I feel obligated to remind you that if you didn’t watch the final episode of Bates Motel last night, walk away now.

Another aspect to Psycho is that you were led to imagine your internal horrors. The viewer did not witness the gory details, and yet somehow saw them in their mind. They were given the opportunity imagine the worst. Many swore after watching it that the blood in the tub was red. Forgetting the movie was in black and white. Viewers were introduced to a hint of the horror, unaware how deeply the ideas seeded in their minds.

Then, last but not least, you had Anthony Perkins as Norman Bates. Something about him just made you love this awkward young man. His behavior at the end just brings you to want to know more even though that look in his eyes made your blood shiver. Intrigued by a dark secret that just wouldn’t let you go. This curiosity is what truly brought me to Bates Motel. What made Norman Bates tick?

I started watching Bates Motel fingers crossed and holding my breath. Like many fans of Psycho, my standards were high. For starters, don’t mess up my affection for Norman! You see in my head there was only one Norman Bates.  Yes, he killed a lady, stuffed his mother, and ran around the house in her clothes, but I still had a soft place for this awkward character.  Then I watched Freddie Highmore. Early on, I recognized Norman’s mannerisms. It was as if he summoned Mr. Perkins himself to guide him through the halls of the iconic house. I was relieved to see Norman portrayed as a kind young man who’s troubles evolved from a dark history instead of just accepting that he was a madman.

Then enter Norma. Oh my goodness, I couldn’t have picked a better Norma!  I loved her outbursts, her madness, her passion, and even her most vulnerable moments. Let’s face it. There were times in life that you just wanted to go all out Norma when the world around you is just a mess.  Vera Farmiga brought to Norma what Anthony Perkins brought to Norman. She gave that stuffed lady in the window life and personality. She was a beautiful and a caring mother. Until then we may have assumed that Mother was nothing but cruel to Norman. Instead, we grew to love and rally for Norma to be happy.

I quickly realized that the creators were actual fans of the movie and did not want to taint a classic. It was also designed to be enjoyed by those who may have missed out on the original. It had it’s own story and direction without cutting itself away from what we all assumed would be the end. Then, there it was last night. The final shower curtain fell. We all thought that history would repeat itself and yet we were surprised. It was as if Norman found himself trapped in a rewinding hell, doomed to relive what he had done again. Then his mother, his conscience, brought him to the realization of who he truly was and what drove his madness. The blame was no longer on Mother, the denial and blackouts were over. Yes, there was a bloody death. That’s just a requirement; he is Norman Bates! If not, I think the fans would have rioted in the local housewares with butcher knives, the shower section of course. However, this murder was different, he understood it, and he owned it. He was not going to be the victim. He faced his demons and took it out on the town adulterer. He may have killed a man in the shower, but this time he was Norman.  He charged in there for Mother, not as Mother. He did it for love.

In that final moment, Norman Bates finally woke up in room 1 of the Bates Motel.