how was psycho received

Alfred Hitchcock's film "Psycho," released in 1960, initially received mixed reviews from critics. Some were shocked and concerned about its graphic content and heavy-handed violence, with early reviews ranging from dismissive to cautious. For example, Time magazine initially criticized it for being overly heavy-handed and stomach-churning. However, other critics, including Bosley Crowther of the New York Times, later changed their opinions, recognizing "Psycho" as a bold, masterful psychological mystery and including it in their top films of 1960. Audiences responded strongly, drawn by Hitchcock's clever marketing techniques that maintained suspense and secrecy. Over time, critical reassessment elevated "Psycho" to iconic status. It became widely praised for its innovative storytelling, technical mastery, and profound impact on the horror and thriller genres. The film was also recognized for pioneering modern horror with its narrative and visual style, particularly the famous shower scene. Today, "Psycho" enjoys universal acclaim and is considered a cinematic masterpiece. It holds a 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is praised for its psychological depth and influence on filmmaking. Scholars and critics have extensively analyzed it from various perspectives, cementing its status as a cornerstone of film history and horror cinema.