Ep 10. Norman

Norman Bates has always been a character that has perplexed us with his strange behavior and the secrets he keeps. In the tenth episode of the fourth season of Bates Motel, we see Norman come face to face with himself - there is nobody left to hide behind, nobody left to protect him from the truth.

The episode begins with Norman sitting in the cell of a mental institution, where he has been since confessing to his crimes. He is at peace with himself, as he believes that he has finally done the right thing by confessing. However, his peace is short-lived, as he soon discovers that his confession may have grave consequences for him and everyone who is dear to him.

The episode takes us on a journey through Norman's mind and his memories, showing us how he has been shaped to become the person he is today. We see flashbacks of his childhood, where he is raised by his mother Norma, a woman who is deeply overprotective and paranoid about the world outside. We see how she has shielded him from the horrors of the outside world, and how she has used him as her emotional crutch.

The episode shows us how Norman has always had a tenuous grip on reality - he has had hallucinations and delusions for as long as he can remember. He has always relied on his mother to ground him and tell him what is real and what is not. But now, with Norma dead, he is all alone with his demons, and they are beginning to take over.

The episode deals with some of the major themes that have been prevalent throughout the series, such as mental illness, family, and the struggle to fit in. We see how Norman has always felt like he never really belonged in this world, like he is an outsider looking in. We see how his mental illness has made it difficult for him to form relationships and connect with others, leading to his close relationship with his mother.

The episode is a haunting exploration of the mind of a killer, and it forces us to confront some uncomfortable truths about ourselves and our society. It asks us to consider how we treat those with mental illness and how we can better support them. It also asks us to question the role of families in shaping individuals, and how our upbringing affects our mental health.

Ultimately, the episode is a powerful and emotional conclusion to the fourth season of Bates Motel. It leaves us with a sense of sadness and loss, but also with a glimmer of hope for the future. It shows us that even in the darkest of times, there can be some light, and that we are never truly alone. It is a fitting tribute to a show that has captivated audiences with its complex characters and thought-provoking themes.