Detailed Summary
Dr. Steven Murphy’s Perfect Life
Dr. Steven Murphy (Colin Farrell) is a renowned cardiovascular surgeon who lives a seemingly perfect life with his wife Anna (Nicole Kidman) and their two children, Kim and Bob. However, things start to take a dark turn when Steven forms a bond with a teenage boy named Martin (Barry Keoghan).
Martin’s Unsettling Presence
Martin’s presence becomes increasingly disturbing. Initially, he seems to want a father figure in Steven, as his own father died on the operating table under Steven’s care. Martin starts visiting Steven’s family, ingratiating himself in their lives in a way that grows progressively more uncomfortable.
The Revelation of Martin’s Intentions
Martin’s intentions become clear when he confronts Steven, revealing a chilling ultimatum: Steven must kill a member of his own family to balance the scales for Martin’s father’s death. If Steven fails to do so, his entire family will suffer a mysterious ailment leading to paralysis, refusal to eat, bleeding from the eyes, and eventually death.
The Family’s Suffering
The Murphy family begins to suffer from the mysterious affliction, confirming Martin’s threat. Bob is the first to be affected, followed by Kim. Steven’s attempts to rationalize and medically diagnose the situation prove futile.
The Moral Dilemma
As the family’s condition worsens, Steven faces an impossible choice. He tries to negotiate with Martin, even going as far as abducting and torturing him, but Martin remains steadfast. Desperation drives Steven to consider sacrificing himself, but he ultimately decides to carry out Martin’s demand.
The Climax: The Decision
In a harrowing scene, Steven blindfolds himself, spins in circles with a rifle, and randomly shoots to decide who will die. The shot kills Bob, seemingly breaking the curse and restoring Kim and Anna to health.
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Movie Ending
The film ends on a bleak note. After Bob’s death, Steven, Anna, and Kim try to resume their lives. In the final scene, the family silently sits in a diner where Martin watches them from a distance, suggesting that while the immediate threat is over, the psychological scars remain.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” does not have any post-credits scenes.
Type of Movie
This film is a psychological horror-thriller with strong elements of drama and a deep exploration of moral dilemmas.
Cast
- Colin Farrell as Dr. Steven Murphy
- Nicole Kidman as Anna Murphy
- Barry Keoghan as Martin Lang
- Raffey Cassidy as Kim Murphy
- Sunny Suljic as Bob Murphy
- Alicia Silverstone as Martin’s Mother
Film Music and Composer
The film’s haunting score is composed by Jóhann Jóhannsson, featuring unsettling classical music pieces that enhance the eerie and tense atmosphere.
Filming Locations
- Cincinnati, Ohio: The primary filming location, providing an urban backdrop that contrasts with the film’s surreal and disturbing events.
- Christ Hospital: Used for several hospital scenes, lending authenticity to the medical aspects of the story.
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Awards and Nominations
- Cannes Film Festival: Won Best Screenplay (Yorgos Lanthimos and Efthymis Filippou), nominated for the Palme d’Or.
- British Independent Film Awards: Nominated for Best Director (Yorgos Lanthimos) and Best Supporting Actor (Barry Keoghan).
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Inspiration: The film draws heavily from Greek tragedy, particularly the myth of Iphigenia, where a father must sacrifice his daughter to appease the gods.
- Barry Keoghan’s Performance: Keoghan’s portrayal of Martin was highly praised for its chilling and unsettling nature.
- Director’s Approach: Yorgos Lanthimos is known for his unique and often bizarre directorial style, which is evident in the film’s tone and dialogue.
Inspirations and References
- Greek Tragedy: Inspired by the ancient Greek play “Iphigenia in Aulis” by Euripides, where a father is forced to sacrifice his daughter.
- Kubrickian Style: The film’s style and atmosphere draw comparisons to the works of Stanley Kubrick, particularly “The Shining.”
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
There are no widely known alternate endings or significant deleted scenes. Lanthimos’s vision was clear and precise, leaving little room for deviation.
Book Adaptations and Differences
The film is not based on a book but rather inspired by classical mythology and Greek tragedies, reimagined in a modern setting.
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Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Martin’s Ultimatum: The chilling scene where Martin lays out his demand to Steven.
- Family’s Affliction: The harrowing moments when the children begin to suffer from the mysterious condition.
- Steven’s Decision: The climactic scene where Steven blindfolds himself to decide which family member to kill.
Iconic Quotes
- “I don’t know if what is happening is fair, but it’s the only thing I can think of that’s close to justice.” – Martin
- “Our children are dying, but yes, let’s talk about my haircut.” – Anna
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- Greek Tragedy References: Various subtle nods to Greek mythology, such as the characters’ names and the sacrificial theme.
- Kubrick Homage: The sterile, symmetrical shots and the use of classical music are reminiscent of Kubrick’s style.
Trivia
- Yorgos Lanthimos’s use of deadpan delivery from actors is a signature style seen in his other films.
- Colin Farrell and Nicole Kidman reunited in the same year for “The Beguiled.”
- The film’s title references the myth of Iphigenia, where a sacred deer’s killing leads to a need for sacrifice.
Why Watch?
“The Killing of a Sacred Deer” offers a unique blend of psychological horror and moral quandary, with standout performances and a thought-provoking narrative. It’s a compelling watch for those who appreciate intense, unsettling cinema.
Director’s Other Movies
Recommended Films for Fans
- The Lobster (2015)
- Hereditary (2018)
- The Witch (2015)
- Mother! (2017)
- Black Swan (2010)