Close the curtain! Psycho prequel headed to TV

The A&E network has lost its marbles. It's gone completely insane or better yet, Psycho! The cable channel has picked up a new TV series based on Alfred Hitchcock's famous 1960 film.

The drama, which is called Bates Motel, is a prequel to the classic that starred Janet Leigh and Anthony Perkins. The series is a collaboration between Lost's Carlton Cuse and Friday Night Lights' Kerry Ehrin.

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According to The Hollywood Reporter, it's described as "a contemporary exploration of Norman Bates' formative years. It will explore his relationship with his mother, Norma, and offer a look at the backstory that helped forge the infamous serial killer."

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Oddly enough, it's also being viewed as a cross between Twin Peaks and Smallville. We're not sure how Superman's origin fits in with that of a murderer, but we'll take their word for it.

Instead of producing a pilot, testing it, then picking it up, A&E has pushed Bates Motel straight to series. It's already received a 10-episode order for its first season, which will debut in 2013.

In a statement the network said:

“We are proud to be partnering with Carlton Cuse and Kerry Ehrin on their thrilling reinvention of one of the most compelling characters in cinematic history. It’s a provocative project from two of the best storytellers in the business and we’re looking forward to getting started.”

Casting and preproduction on Bates Motel is expected to begin immediately.

Are you ready to see the Psycho origin story?

Photo credit: WENN