Pure Murder

Pure cocaine kills rich Dr. Poe, a ``recreational user,'' creating a difficult case for Pyle's endearing, anxious detective Cesar Franck of Cincinnati ( Murder Moves On ). Meeting the widow, Christa, Franck learns that Poe's supplier and presumed killer may be among the late doctor's prominent friends, who include a smart TV news director and the incredibly stupid anchorman he favors over able female reporter Kay Gallery. Considered fat and bumbling by his colleagues, Franck sympathizes with Kay and gladly accepts her offer to help investigate the mystery, particularly when the murders continue. To his horror, Franck finds his stern lieutenant among the suspects about to be caught in the trap Kay sets, a risky plan that ends in wild excitement and a surprise finish. Pyle's inimitably sharp but fond satiric views of fallible humans make this pure murder pure joy. (Mar.)