The Killing of a Sacred Deer by Yorgos Lanthimos (2017)

[yogiyamada]

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"The Killing of a Sacred Deer" is a psychological thriller movie directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, which premiered in 2017. The movie follows the story of Steven Murphy, a successful surgeon, who is forced to confront a difficult decision when a young man named Martin, whom he has taken under his wing, begins to threaten his family. The movie's atmosphere is tense and eerie from the beginning, and Lanthimos masterfully builds suspense throughout the film. The movie's slow pace and deliberate camera work create a sense of unease that keeps the audience on edge. The use of classical music, especially the haunting melody of Schubert's "Stabat Mater," contributes to the movie's haunting and unnerving atmosphere.

The performances in the movie are exceptional, with Colin Farrell delivering a standout performance as Steven Murphy. He effectively conveys the character's conflicted emotions and struggles as he faces the horrific consequences of his actions. Nicole Kidman, who plays Steven's wife, Anna, also delivers a solid performance, portraying the character's emotional turmoil and anguish. The movie explores themes of guilt, responsibility, and sacrifice in a thought-provoking way. It raises ethical questions about how far a person would go to save their loved ones and the morality of making difficult choices in such situations. The film's climax is both shocking and tragic, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.



One of the most notable aspects of the film is its unique and unsettling tone. Lanthimos creates a world that is simultaneously mundane and surreal, with characters who speak in a stilted, almost robotic manner. This gives the film a sense of detachment and unease, as if the events unfolding onscreen are somehow disconnected from reality. The plot is also highly unconventional, with elements of horror and dark comedy mixed in with the thriller elements. As Martin's plan to exact revenge on Steven becomes clear, the tension and suspense ratchet up to a fever pitch, culminating in a shocking and disturbing climax.
One of the themes of the film is the idea of guilt and punishment. Martin's actions are motivated by a desire to hold Steven accountable for a past mistake, but as the film progresses it becomes clear that there is more at play than simple revenge. The film asks difficult questions about the nature of justice and the limits of human responsibility, forcing the audience to grapple with complex moral issues.




"The Killing of a Sacred Deer" is a brilliantly executed movie that showcases Lanthimos's unique vision and style. The film's haunting atmosphere, exceptional performances, and thought-provoking themes make it a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers. However, the movie's unsettling nature may not be suitable for all audiences.