Psycho IV: The Beginning (1990)

This week, The Good, The Bad, and The Sequel revisits Psycho IV: The Beginning, the made-for-TV prequel/sequel that dives back into the twisted psyche of Norman Bates — and we’re joined by horror sequel expert Chris Egan to help unpack it all.Serving as both an origin story and a continuation, Psycho IV explores Norman’s traumatic past while connecting directly to the legacy of one of horror’s most iconic characters.We dig into everything, including:🔪 How the film humanizes Norman Bates while still embracing his darkness📞 The late-night radio call-in framing device and why it works (and sometimes doesn’t)🧠 Henry Thomas portraying young Norman and expanding the character’s tragic origins🎭 Anthony Perkins’ return and the emotional weight he brings to the role🏚️ Mother, trauma, and the psychological themes that drive the story📺 Made-for-TV limitations vs. surprisingly strong storytelling choices👨‍⚕️ Susan’s dad from Seinfeld showing up as the doctor (and stealing scenes)🔥 CCH Pounder and Olivia Hussey absolutely crushing their roles❤️ The surprising number of women who fall for Normie🎬 Where Psycho IV fits within the franchise and whether it delivers a satisfying conclusionChris Egan brings deep sequel knowledge, horror passion, and sharp insights that make this conversation essential listening for franchise fans and horror completists alike.🎥 Watch the full, unedited video review:👉 sequelsonly.com/psycho4🎬 Next Up: Detective Knight: Redemption 🔥We also chatted with director Edward Drake, who shared his journey from Australia to directing music videos, moving into indie horror, and ultimately working with Bruce Willis across multiple films.📲 Follow us everywhere: @sequelsonly🌐 Visit the site: sequelsonly.com💬 Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with friends, enemies, neighbors, exes… and anyone who still hears Mother’s voice.