Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Psycho is one of the scariest movies ever made, even though it's far less explicit than a lot of what's in theaters now. Still, this is a frightening movie, and judgment should be used about which kids will enjoy it and which will find it disturbing. The famous shower scene never shows the knife touching flesh, but it's still terrifying. There are also several very frightening scenes involving a corpse. On a less scary note, a character steals money from her boss' client, and a couple is shown post-sex, though they are clothed. There's some drinking and smoking. That said, this is a classic of filmmaking, one of the most influential and respected films ever made. It's terrifying and brilliant, and families with teens can enjoy the scares together.

Sexual Content

A couple is shown post-sex, though they are clothed. A man spies on a woman as she removes her blouse, revealing her bra. Nudity in shower scene but nothing sensitive shown.

Violence

The iconic shower scene never shows the knife touching flesh, but there is blood, and the character's dead face and eyes are shown up close. There are also several very frightening scenes involving a corpse. A man is stabbed, with slash marks across his face.

Language

Not applicable

Social Behavior

The main characters are all flawed, if not deeply disturbed.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Some drinking, but no one acts drunk. Cigarette smoking. A secretary makes reference to taking tranquilizers to help her with her headaches.