The Killing of a Sacred Deer

Main Plot

The Killing of a Sacred Deer follows a successful cardiovascular surgeon who becomes entangled in a disturbing relationship with a mysterious teenager named Martin. As the surgeon tries to mentor Martin, he discovers that the boy harbors a dark secret linked to a tragic incident from the surgeon's past. Martin's influence begins to infiltrate the surgeon's family life, leading to a series of unsettling events that challenge the surgeon's moral compass. As tensions rise, the surgeon is faced with an impossible choice that threatens the lives of his loved ones. The film explores themes of guilt, sacrifice, and the consequences of one's actions, creating an atmosphere of psychological tension and moral ambiguity. The narrative unfolds in a surreal and unsettling manner, leaving the audience questioning the nature of justice and retribution.

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 Killing of a Sacred Deer, the ending culminates in a harrowing resolution to the central conflict involving a mysterious curse placed on a surgeon's family. After a series of unsettling events, the surgeon is faced with an impossible choice: he must sacrifice one of his family members to save the others. This moral dilemma intensifies as his son and wife begin to suffer from a mysterious illness, which is revealed to be a consequence of the surgeon's past actions. In the climax, the surgeon takes his family to a remote location, grappling with the weight of his decision. Ultimately, he chooses to blindfold himself and shoot one of his family members, a grim act that symbolizes his acceptance of the curse and the need to restore balance. The act of violence serves as a twisted form of justice, reflecting the film's exploration of guilt, retribution, and the consequences of one's choices. The film concludes with the surgeon's family seemingly restored, yet the atmosphere remains heavy with unresolved tension. The ending leaves viewers questioning the nature of sacrifice and the moral complexities inherent in human relationships, reinforcing the film's themes of fate and the inescapable repercussions of one's actions.