The Killing of a Sacred Deer

Main Plot

"The Killing of a Sacred Deer" is a psychological thriller directed by Yorgos Lanthimos. The film follows Steven Murphy, a charismatic surgeon, who leads a seemingly idyllic life with his wife Anna and their two children. However, his past harbors dark secrets that begin to unravel when he befriends Martin, a mysterious teenager. As their relationship deepens, Steven introduces Martin to his family, unaware of the impending catastrophe he has invited into their lives. Martin's true intentions soon become clear, revealing a sinister agenda linked to a past tragedy for which he holds Steven responsible. The film escalates as Martin presents Steven with a horrifying ultimatum, forcing him to make an unthinkable moral decision to protect his family. The narrative delves into themes of guilt, retribution, and the choices one must face when confronted with the consequences of their actions. Lanthimos crafts a chilling atmosphere, blending elements of Greek tragedy with modern moral dilemmas, leading to a haunting and ambiguous conclusion.

Characters

• Barry G. Bernson plays Dr. Larry Banks, a colleague of the protagonist, Steven Murphy. His role is minor, primarily providing professional and social context to Steven's life.
• Herb Caillouet plays Ed Thompson, a colleague of Steven Murphy. He is involved in discussions that hint at Steven's past and the unfolding psychological drama.
• Bill Camp plays Matthew, a colleague of Steven's who provides crucial information about Martin's background, influencing the unfolding events and Steven's understanding of his situation.

Ending Explained

In the conclusion of Yorgos Lanthimos's film "The Killing of a Sacred Deer," Steven Murphy, a cardiac surgeon, faces the ultimate moral dilemma imposed by Martin, a teenage boy whose father died on Steven's operating table. Martin reveals that to balance the death caused by Steven, one member of Steven's family must die - his wife, son, or daughter. As the film progresses, Steven's children become mysteriously paralyzed, and his wife, Anna, becomes increasingly desperate. Unable to choose whom to sacrifice, Steven decides to leave the decision to chance. He blindfolds himself, spins in a circle, and randomly fires a rifle at his family members, who are also blindfolded and bound in the living room. After several missed shots, he fatally shoots his son, Bob. The film ends with Steven, Anna, and their daughter, Kim, visiting a diner. There, they encounter Martin. The family's interaction is cold and distant, indicating that the psychological and moral impacts of Steven's choice continue to haunt them. The film concludes with Martin staring intensely at the family, underscoring the ongoing consequences of Steven's actions and the inescapable guilt that accompanies them.