The Pyx

The Pyx, also known as The Hooker Cult Murders and La Lunule, is an intriguing and often overlooked entry into the world of 1970s horror cinema. Directed by Harvey Hart, the film features celebrated actor Christopher Plummer alongside the charismatic Karen Black and Donald Pilon. The Canadian horror drama is an adaptation of the 1959 novel of the same name by John Buell.

The Pyx has a layered narrative structure that alternates between two interconnected storylines. A clever approach that keeps the audience hanging onto its suspense-filled thread until the climax.

The movie’s opening scene sets the gloomy tone for the narrative, where we see a mysterious woman (played by Karen Black) falling to her death from a high-rise building in Montreal.

Christopher Plummer shines in his role as Detective Sergeant Jim Henderson, portrayed as an astute yet world-weary cop with a sardonic worldview, thrust into the investigation of this baffling case. His determined pursuit for the truth behind the woman's death leads him down a path of unsettling revelations that the audience will find absorbing.

Karen Black, an actress renowned for her work in the horror genre, plays the role of Elizabeth Lucy, a drug-addicted prostitute with a deeply tragic past. The narrative, through a series of flashbacks, attempts to unearth her past and the circumstances that have led her to her untimely demise.

Donald Pilon, on the other hand, portrays a French Canadian detective, Sergeant Pierre Paquette, who aids Henderson in his investigation. His character provides an interesting foil to Plummer's gritty cop, contributing to the rising tension in the story.

The film's plot incorporates a blend of crime, horror, and conspiracy, gradually pulling back the layers to expose a disturbing underbelly of corruption and religious fanaticism. The narrative effectively builds suspense using occult themes, enhancing the creep factor of the film. The film's upside is that the supernatural elements are presented subtly, making the storyline feel fresh and original.

The Pyx is wonderfully atmospheric, capturing the eerie side of Montreal's cityscape, presenting it as a place steeped in shadow and mystery. It uses its locations to great effect, painting a bleak and somber picture that sticks with the viewers long after the movie has ended.

Moreover, The Pyx has an impressive musical score. Karen Black, a talented singer as well as an actress, lent her vocals to several haunting songs scattered throughout the film. This hauntingly melodic soundtrack only bolsters its chilling atmosphere and adds depth to Black's character arc.

While the movie follows the beats of a traditional murder mystery, the film also touches upon themes of abuse, addiction, and fallen faith. These dark themes resonate and further elevate the film from being a mere horror flick to a profound exploration of the human condition and its frailties.

Performance-wise, the entire cast delivers commendable acting, helping viewers invest deeper into the story. The standout is, without a doubt, Christopher Plummer, who brings a sturdy authority to his role, grappling with the harsh realities of his investigation. Karen Black also delivers a sympathetic performance as the troubled Elizabeth, making viewers empathize with her tragic background.

The Pyx is not a traditional horror movie; it doesn't rely on jump-scares or cheap thrills but a slowly unfolding narrative that builds up to a climax that's chilling in its implications. Its cryptic title comes from a small container used in Catholicism to carry the Eucharist, a symbolic reference that will become clear to viewers as they journey through the layers of this dark tale.

In summary, The Pyx, despite its age, will hold its appeal to fans of slow-burn horror and mystery cinema. Its elements of horror, drama, and dark suspense woven together with commendable performances make it an engrossing watch. The Pyx serves as a chilling and atmospheric narrative that unpacks a complex tale of crime and corruption, featuring unforgettable performances from its cast. A cult classic in its sector, this film is a must-watch for fans of this niche genre trying to unravel and understand the consequences of human frailty.