Psycho vs. Savage

Attribute	Psycho	Savage
Definition	A person suffering from a chronic mental disorder with abnormal or violent social behavior	A person who is uncivilized or primitive
Origin	Greek word "psykho" meaning "soul" or "mind"	Old French word "sauvage" meaning "wild"
Behavior	Abnormal or violent social behavior	Uncivilized or primitive behavior
Connotation	Negative connotation associated with mental illness	Negative connotation associated with lack of civilization

Plot

Psycho, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, tells the story of Marion Crane, who steals money from her employer and ends up at the Bates Motel, run by the mysterious Norman Bates. The film takes a dark turn as the audience discovers the truth about Norman's mother and the horrors that have taken place at the motel. On the other hand, Savage, directed by Oliver Stone, follows the journey of a Vietnam War veteran, John Savage, as he struggles to reintegrate into society and cope with the trauma of war.

Characters

In Psycho, the characters are complex and multi-dimensional. Marion Crane is portrayed as a sympathetic character who makes a series of bad decisions that ultimately lead to her demise. Norman Bates is a fascinating character who is both charming and deeply disturbed. In Savage, the characters are also well-developed, with John Savage being a troubled protagonist who is haunted by his experiences in Vietnam. The supporting characters in both films add depth and complexity to the story.

Themes

Psycho explores themes of guilt, identity, and the nature of evil. The film delves into the idea of duality and the darkness that lies within all of us. Savage, on the other hand, deals with themes of trauma, PTSD, and the impact of war on individuals and society. Both films are psychological in nature and delve into the darker aspects of the human psyche.

Setting

The setting of Psycho, the Bates Motel, is a key element of the film's atmosphere. The isolated motel and the eerie house on the hill create a sense of foreboding and unease. In Savage, the setting of post-war America adds to the film's sense of despair and hopelessness. The gritty urban landscapes and the bleak portrayal of society reflect the inner turmoil of the characters.

Visuals

Psycho is known for its iconic shower scene and innovative use of camera angles and editing techniques. The film's black-and-white cinematography adds to its suspenseful atmosphere. Savage, on the other hand, uses a more realistic and gritty visual style to convey the harsh realities of war and its aftermath. The film's use of handheld camera work and natural lighting creates a sense of immediacy and authenticity.

Soundtrack

The soundtrack of Psycho, composed by Bernard Herrmann, is one of the most famous in film history. The screeching violins and haunting melodies add to the film's tension and suspense. In Savage, the soundtrack is more subdued and atmospheric, with a focus on ambient sounds and minimalistic music. The soundtrack enhances the film's emotional impact and adds to its overall mood.

Reception

Psycho was a critical and commercial success, with many praising Hitchcock's direction and the film's innovative storytelling. The film has since become a classic of the horror genre. Savage, on the other hand, received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its raw and uncompromising portrayal of war, while others criticized its bleak tone and lack of narrative coherence.

Legacy

Psycho has had a lasting impact on popular culture, inspiring countless imitations and homages in film and television. The character of Norman Bates has become an iconic figure in horror cinema. Savage, while not as well-known as Psycho, has also left its mark on audiences with its powerful depiction of the effects of war on individuals. Both films continue to be studied and analyzed by film scholars and enthusiasts.