Psycho III (1986)

Psycho III (1986) is an American slasher film, and the latest installment in the Psycho franchise. It continues the story one month after the events of Psycho II, where Norman Bates still operates the Bates Motel and keeps Emma Spool’s corpse in his home. At this time, Norman is also struggling with the disappearance of Spool, who claimed to be his real mother before her death. With their growing concern for her whereabouts, Norman’s former boss Ralph Statler and local authorities begin investigating. Meanwhile, Duane Duke, a desperate musician short on cash, is offered a position as assistant manager at the motel. In addition, journalist Tracy Venable from Los Angeles arrives to interview Norman about serial killers being released from prison. However, their conversation is cut short when Maureen Coyle, a disturbed young woman who left her life as a nun behind, enters the scene.

Maureen, who bears a striking resemblance to Norman’s former victim Marion Crane, was the target of his murderous tendencies twenty-two years prior, leading to his imprisonment. The sight of the initials ‘M.C.’ on her luggage sends Norman into a state of panic, causing him to abruptly leave the diner they are in together. That evening, ‘Mother’ makes her way into Maureen’s bathroom with the intention of taking her life. This traumatic event triggers Norman’s split personality and results in Maureen mistaking ‘Mother’ wielding a knife for the Virgin Mary holding a cross. After bringing Maureen to the hospital and offering her support for as long as she needs it, their relationship takes on a romantic nature once she is released. Meanwhile, Duke meets Red at a bar and irresponsibly pursues her despite her wanting more than just a casual encounter.