The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017) Watch Online Free

Dr. Steven Murphy is a renowned cardiovascular surgeon who presides over a spotless household with his wife and two children. Lurking at the margins of his idyllic suburban existence is Martin, a fatherless teen who insinuates himself into the doctor’s life in gradually unsettling ways.

The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017), directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, is a psychological thriller that blends horror, drama, and elements of Greek mythology. The film follows Steven Murphy (Colin Farrell), a renowned heart surgeon, who develops an unusual relationship with a teenage boy named Martin (Barry Keoghan). Martin’s father died under Steven’s care, and the boy harbors a deep, unsettling grudge. Over time, Martin insinuates himself into Steven’s life, and as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that his actions are tied to a supernatural and moral dilemma.

The plot takes a darker turn when Martin reveals that Steven’s family is cursed. In a chilling twist, he demands that Steven choose one of his family members—his wife Anna (Nicole Kidman), his son Bob (Sunny Suljic), or his daughter Kim (Raffey Cassidy)—to die in order to lift the curse. The family members gradually fall ill, and Steven is forced to make an impossible choice. The film explores themes of guilt, retribution, and the consequences of past actions, all while maintaining an eerie atmosphere that keeps the audience on edge.

Themes and Impact of the Movie

1. Guilt and Consequences

At the heart of “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” is the theme of guilt and the consequences of past actions. Steven’s relationship with Martin stems from a tragic event in the past—the death of Martin’s father during a surgery performed by Steven. The movie emphasizes the idea that one cannot escape the moral repercussions of their actions, no matter how far they try to distance themselves from them. The curse that Martin places on Steven’s family serves as a metaphor for the inescapable nature of guilt and the need for atonement.

2. Revenge and Retribution

The film also explores the concept of revenge. Martin’s actions are driven by a need for retribution for the death of his father. The film portrays revenge as a cycle that is difficult to break, and it suggests that seeking vengeance can lead to destructive consequences for both the victim and the perpetrator. The moral complexity of Martin’s character, who may seem like a victim, makes the audience question whether revenge is ever truly justified.

3. Morality and Sacrifice

One of the most prominent themes is the exploration of morality. The film challenges viewers to question the ethical decisions that Steven must make. Is it acceptable to sacrifice one life to save others? The dilemma Steven faces forces him to confront the nature of sacrifice and the moral implications of choosing one life over another. The film suggests that morality is not black and white, and that decisions made in extreme circumstances often come with a heavy emotional cost.

4. Isolation and Detachment

The film’s characters are emotionally distant and isolated from one another. Steven, despite his family’s wealth and apparent success, is detached from his wife and children. This emotional coldness creates an atmosphere of tension and unease throughout the film. The characters’ inability to connect emotionally with each other adds to the film’s unsettling tone, making the audience feel the isolation of the characters as they face the impossible situation brought on by Martin.

5. Fate and Free Will

The idea of fate versus free will is also a central theme in the film. Steven’s struggle to change the course of events and his inability to escape the consequences of his actions reflect the tension between fate and free will. The curse that Martin imposes on Steven’s family seems like an inescapable fate, yet Steven’s attempts to alter the outcome suggest that free will and personal choice still play a role in determining the final resolution.

10 Reasons to Watch “The Killing of a Sacred Deer”

1. Unpredictable Plot: The film’s plot is full of twists and turns that keep the audience guessing. The slow-burn tension leads to an unsettling climax, making it a thrilling watch.
2. Psychological Depth: The film delves deep into the psychology of its characters, particularly Steven, who must grapple with the moral implications of his past actions and the curse placed upon his family.
3. Atmosphere of Tension: Lanthimos creates a chilling atmosphere through his use of minimalistic sound design, static camera shots, and unsettling dialogue. The tension is palpable throughout the film.
4. Strong Performances: The cast delivers exceptional performances, particularly Colin Farrell and Barry Keoghan. Keoghan’s portrayal of Martin is both eerie and compelling, adding to the film’s sense of dread.
5. Exploration of Moral Dilemmas: The movie raises profound questions about morality, sacrifice, and the consequences of one’s actions. It forces the audience to reflect on difficult ethical choices.
6. Cinematic Style: Lanthimos’ unique directing style, characterized by long takes, precise framing, and a cold, detached aesthetic, creates a sense of discomfort that enhances the film’s themes.
7. Greek Mythology References: The title of the film refers to the myth of Iphigenia, in which a father is forced to sacrifice his daughter. The film’s plot mirrors this myth, adding an extra layer of depth to the narrative.
8. Philosophical Undertones: The film is rich with philosophical themes, particularly around fate, guilt, and retribution. It offers much to think about long after the credits roll.
9. Dark Humor: While the film is mostly serious, there are moments of dark humor that add a layer of complexity to the characters and their interactions, providing some relief amidst the tension.
10. Unique Experience: “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” is unlike most films you’ll see. Its slow pace, disturbing content, and unsettling atmosphere make it a unique cinematic experience that challenges traditional storytelling.

How Will You Feel After Watching “The Killing of a Sacred Deer”?

After watching “The Killing of a Sacred Deer,” you are likely to feel disturbed and unsettled. The film’s slow pace and intense psychological tension leave a lasting impression, and the moral dilemmas it presents may make you question your own ethical beliefs. You may feel a sense of unease as the film leaves many questions unanswered, forcing you to reflect on its themes long after it ends.

The film’s atmosphere is haunting, and the lack of resolution in the characters’ emotional arcs may leave you feeling dissatisfied in a way that is intended to provoke thought. You might also feel conflicted, as the film does not provide easy answers to the complex questions it raises about guilt, revenge, and morality. Ultimately, “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” is a thought-provoking experience that will leave you questioning the nature of justice and the consequences of one’s actions.

In conclusion, Yorgos Lanthimos’ “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” is a chilling and thought-provoking film that explores deep philosophical and moral themes. Its unpredictable plot, strong performances, and unique cinematic style make it a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers. While it may leave you feeling disturbed, it is precisely this emotional discomfort that makes the film so impactful.