DVD Review: Bates Motel, Season One

I just finished watching the first season of Bates Motel on DVD, and I must say... it was addicting! I was watching episodes back to back, and they all ended with a cliffhanger, so I was really glad I was watching on DVD instead of on TV where I'd have to wait for new episodes every week.

Bates Motel is supposed to a be a prequel to the classic horror film, Psycho (which I haven't seen but really need to now). It tells the story of a teenage Norman Bates and his mother, Norma. Norman's father has just passed away, and his mother has purchased a run down motel in a new town, White Pine Bay, to start over. Almost immediately after arriving, strange and sinister things start happening, many of them caused by the Bates family themselves. We see the strange relationship between Norman and his mother, and start to see how Norman eventually becomes what he becomes: psycho.

I really, really enjoyed this thrilling show. I wouldn't really describe it as horror, but more of a mystery suspense. At first, I thought that Norma, the mother, was the crazy one, but as I continued watching, I started to think maybe it was Norman who was. Watch it for yourself and see what you think... I'm still not sure!

Norman, though a little strange for his age, seems mostly levelheaded and typical. He does have an unusually close relationship with his mother, but he also falls for girls, listens to music, and fights with his brother, like most teenage boys do. Secrets are eventually revealed, though, that make you wonder if Norman really is what he seems to be...

In addition to the strange Bates family, the town itself is really strange and sinister. There are so many illegal things taking place and mysterious happenings that your head will be spinning!

All in all, this is a great show for those who love suspense. I really cannot wait for season two to air so that I can uncover even more mysteries of the Bates family and White Pine Bay!
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Reviewed by Stephanie

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