How did Alfred Hitchcock create the opening scene in Psycho?

It begins with several shots that pan across the Phoenix skyline, each shot dissolving into another one, as the pan movement continues. These are real shots of Phoenix, presumably taken from atop a building. read more

But if you watch the opening, with the cut in mind, you'll see it: Watch Psycho online! Sorry about the ad-infested site. It's the only place I could find the scene online for free. read more

Alfred Hitchcock and the Making of Psycho. Dembner Books, 1990. A definitive "making of" account tracing every stage of the production of the film as well as its aftermath. Rebello, Stephen. "Psycho: The Making of Alfred Hitchcock's Masterpiece". "Cinefantastique", April 1986 (Volume 16, Number 4/5). Comprehensive 22-page article. Skerry, Philip J. read more

Whereas before "Psycho", people were used to seeing "Super naturals" as the killer in horror based films. Before even seeing the film Hitchcock had created tension and suspense in the audience by, making the audience think that Hitchcock is hiding something from them. read more