“The Killing of a Sacred Deer” is a 2017 film directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, known for its bold and unsettling narrative. The film follows the story of Steven Murphy (played by Colin Farrell), a successful heart surgeon, whose life is disrupted when a young teenager, Martin (played by Barry Keoghan), enters his existence with dark and threatening demands.
The plot unfolds with methodical slowness, creating a sense of unease from the outset. The use of fixed shots, tense soundtrack, and measured performances by the actors contribute to creating a surreal and disturbing atmosphere. Lanthimos’s direction stands out for its originality and ability to convey subtle sensations through imagery.
The film explores complex themes such as fate, guilt, and the search for justice. The relationship between Steven and Martin evolves enigmatically, challenging viewers to seek deeper meanings behind each interaction. Colin Farrell’s acting is intense and calibrated, while Barry Keoghan delivers a magnetic performance as the young Martin, whose character turns out to be the key to a mysterious chain of events.
The element of sacrifice, present in the title, manifests symbolically and metaphorically, leading to reflection on morality and responsibility. The film’s climax offers an unexpected turn, plunging viewers into a whirlwind of complex emotions.
The cinematography, curated by Thimios Bakatakis, plays with symmetry and visual composition to accentuate the story’s surreal atmosphere. The dialogue is minimalist but powerful, contributing to creating an aura of tension that persists throughout the film.
In conclusion, “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” is a cinematic work that transcends the boundaries of traditional psychological thrillers, exploring the human condition through a dark and provocative lens. Its narrative complexity, accompanied by distinctive visual elements, makes the film an engaging and unsettling experience, destined to stimulate reflection and generate lasting discussions about its interpretation and meaning.
The soundtrack of “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” is an essential component that significantly contributes to creating the film’s unique and disturbing atmosphere. Composed by Sunn O))) and Jóhann Jóhannsson, the music is a fundamental element that merges with the plot to accentuate emotional tension and amplify the story’s surreal atmosphere.
The choice to involve Sunn O))), a band known for its approach to drone metal and sound experimentation, reflects the boldness of director Yorgos Lanthimos in creating a unique cinematic experience. Drone metal, characterized by long distorted notes and low tones, perfectly complements the film’s unsettling tone, contributing to building a sense of anxiety and mystery.
Jóhann Jóhannsson, an acclaimed Icelandic composer, contributed to the soundtrack by introducing orchestral and electronic elements. His collaboration with Sunn O))) resulted in a unique sound outcome, where musical tension merges with on-screen images, creating a powerful and unsettling synergy.
The film’s soundtrack also serves as a narrative element, emphasizing crucial moments and accentuating the characters’ emotions. The skillful use of sound becomes a means to immerse viewers in the protagonists’ psychology, amplifying the sense of inevitability that permeates the story.
The unconventional approach to the soundtrack of “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” aligns perfectly with the director’s distinctive artistic approach and contributes to defining the film as a bold and experimental cinematic work. The music, also laden with symbolism and mystery, blends with the plot and visual aesthetics to create a sensory experience that leaves a lasting impression on viewers.
