The movie Tragic Ceremony is a horror thriller that was released in 1972. It was directed by Riccardo Freda and stars Camille Keaton, Luciano Pigozzi, and Tony Isbert. The film is also known as The Witches Mountain and The Body Beneath.
The movie starts with four young people on a sailboat ride, enjoying the sunny day. Bill, who is the son of a rich businessman, gives Jane a pearl necklace that he claims has a paranormal history. Later, their dune buggy runs out of gas, and they knock on the door of a secluded villa, seeking help.
The villa is owned by Lord Alexander and Lady Alexander, a wealthy couple who invite the young people to spend the night at their mansion. However, things take a sinister turn when the guests witness a strange ceremony with black-robed eccentrics chanting around a sacrificial altar. Jane, who had been wearing the pearl necklace, is suddenly lured to the altar while in a trance-like state.
As the robed guests prepare to sacrifice Jane, Bill, Joe, and Fred come to her rescue, and chaos ensues. They witness a mass murder, and the survivors flee the scene with feelings of guilt and uncertainty.
The rest of the film follows the group as they try to unravel the mystery behind the paranormal necklace and the strange aristocrats. They soon realize that they are being hunted by a group of witches who will stop at nothing to get the necklace back.
The movie has a dark and eerie atmosphere with suspenseful music and intense visuals. It is a classic example of Italian horror cinema that was popular during the 70s and 80s. The film revolves around themes of witchcraft, sacrificial rites, and the paranormal, making it a must-watch for horror enthusiasts.
