Psycho and Wimpy

Introduction

A popular myth that has grown over the years is that the film "Psycho" was given the name "Wimpy" during production, presumably to keep the true nature of the film under wraps.

Early publicity stills from the film included photographs of a clapperboard with the word "Wimpy" on it. However, these are much more likely to be referring to Rex Wimpy, who worked as the second camera operator on the film (as well as being the director of photography for the Phoenix location footage). As well as showing the scene and take number, a clapperboard will also normally list the cinematographer.

Wimpy had previously worked with Hitchcock on Spellbound, as a camera operator on the Dali dream sequences.