Houston native Fatima Hye has steadily built a reputation as one of the most overlooked talents in the indie horror scene, and her latest project, Cryptic Triptych, is a testament to her exceptional ability to craft unnervingly personal and darkly imaginative films. Known for her emotionally intense and psychologically driven storytelling, Hye balances psychological terror with striking visual storytelling in this anthology.
Cryptic Triptych consists of three distinct yet thematically linked shorts, diving deep into the nature of toxic relationships and exploring the emotional and moral decay that can stem from obsession, control, and violence. According to Jef Rouner’s review with Dallas Observer, Hye's mastery in depicting these themes stands out, and he emphasizes how the trio of films delivers a compelling narrative experience deserving of wider recognition. Rouner highlights the unique style and powerful storytelling that make Cryptic Triptych a standout in psychological horror.
One of the most striking features of Cryptic Triptych is Hye’s decision to work with different cinematographers for each of the three segments. This approach not only offers each short its own unique artistic identity but also reflects the diversity of perspectives within Hye’s unsettling narratives.
The first short, Adoratum Technica, revisits the myth of Pygmalion with a chilling sci-fi twist. In this modern retelling, the sculptor's creation is not just a statue, but an independent AI imbued with the appearance of life. Zach McCardell plays the obsessive artist who demands love from his creation, while Maclaine Lowery’s haunting portrayal of the AI exudes a cold detachment that remains steadfast even as his desperation spirals into violence. Rob Neilson’s cinematography—especially his use of stark, angular portraits—adds a layer of unease, effectively highlighting the artist’s descent into madness.
The second entry, The Sound of Her Voice, feels grounded in a more brutal, realistic setting. In this story, Hye examines the impact of a toxic parental relationship as a teenage boy slowly succumbs to his mother’s psychological abuse. The themes of identity and control here feel raw and intensely personal, tying back to Hye’s own background in psychology, which she draws upon to explore the fragility of human connection. The story peels back the layers of how early experiences and the superego shape one's identity, and it serves as a stark reminder of the lasting scars left by familial manipulation.
Closing the anthology is Graybeard, a chilling piece that draws its inspiration from the notorious serial killer Albert Fish. This story, the most harrowing of the three, captures the visceral terror of parental fear. The bright, dreamlike cinematography by Kerrianne Parker contrasts with the nightmarish subject matter, creating a surreal sense of dread. Robert Salas delivers a standout performance as the refined yet grotesque killer, whose casual demeanor makes the horror all the more sickening. Despite a few pacing issues, Graybeard ends the trilogy on a powerful note, leaving the audience with a gut-wrenching reminder of the darkness lurking in the human psyche.
Cryptic Triptych cements Hye’s place as one of Texas’ finest horror directors. With its thematic exploration of toxic relationships and the psychological horrors that come with them, this trilogy stands as an essential watch for those who crave intelligent, emotionally charged terror. On October 21, fans will have the opportunity to experience Cryptic Triptych in person, with Hye present to discuss her process at The Texas Theatre.
For those seeking horror that is as emotionally devastating as it is visually arresting, Cryptic Triptych offers an unforgettable journey into the depths of human obsession. Don’t miss it.
Jessie Hobson