The Pyx

The Pyx
Directed by Harvey Hart
Produced by Julian Hoffman
Starring Karen Black
Christopher Plummer
Music by Harry Freedman (music)
Karen Black (vocals)
Cinematography Rene Verzier
Edited by Ron Wisman
Release dates
 September 13, 1973 (Canada)
October 1973 (US)
Running time
 108 min.
Country Canada
Language English
French
Budget $1,000,000 (estimated, Canadian)

The Pyx (also known as The Hooker Cult Murders and La Lunule) is a 1973 Canadian supernatural thriller film starring Karen Black and Christopher Plummer. It is based on the 1959 book of the same title by Montreal author John Buell.

Plot

A motorist witnesses a woman falling or jumping from a tenement building. Police arrive on the scene and find a crucifix and a small metal container (a pyx). While investigating the death, a detective in the city of Montreal enters the world of prostitution, drug addiction, conspiracy, and the occult. As the investigation continues, it is revealed that the dead woman is Elizabeth Lucy, a prostitute and heroin addict. Suspects in Elizabeth's death are soon murdered one by one, and evidence of occult ritual begins to surface, leading to a confrontation with a cult leader who may be possessed by Satan himself.

The Pyx alternates from after Elizabeth's death to before, until the climax.

Cast

Production

Filming began on August 24, 1972, and was completed on October 2, 1972. It was filmed in Montreal, Canada, and includes much French dialog, alongside the main dialog in English.

Music

The music was composed by Harry Freedman, with actress Karen Black lending her vocal talents.

External links