In the critically acclaimed psychological thriller, “The Killing of a Sacred Deer,” directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, the audience is taken on a chilling journey filled with mystery and suspense. One of the central questions that keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats is: what was the poison that led to the tragedy? Let’s explore this intriguing topic and unravel the secrets of the film.
The Plot of “The Killing of a Sacred Deer”
Set in a suburban town, the film follows the life of a successful cardiac surgeon named Steven Murphy, played by Colin Farrell. Steven befriends a teenage boy named Martin, portrayed by Barry Keoghan, who begins to infiltrate Steven’s life and family. As the story unfolds, it becomes apparent that Martin seeks revenge for a tragic event that occurred during one of Steven’s surgeries.
The Poison that Envelops the Storyline
Metaphorically speaking, the poison in “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” represents the guilt and moral dilemma that torments the film’s protagonist, Steven Murphy. The poison symbolizes the consequences of his past actions. Steven is forced to make an unthinkable decision that affects both his family and the young boy who seeks retribution.
The Moral Ambiguity of the Poison
The poison in the film serves as a metaphorical representation of the morally ambiguous choices we make in life. It raises questions about the extent of our responsibility for the consequences of our actions. “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” delves into the concept of justice, exploring the fine line between right and wrong and the devastating impact of decisions made under extreme pressure.
The poison also represents the corrosive power of secrets. It acts as a catalyst for the characters’ hidden truths and desires to surface, revealing the dark underbelly of their lives. The toxic nature of the poison mirrors the toxicity of the secrets that the characters keep buried within themselves.
The Influence of Greek Tragedy
“The Killing of a Sacred Deer” draws inspiration from Greek tragedies, particularly the myth of Iphigenia. In the Greek myth, Agamemnon kills a sacred deer, and as a punishment from the gods, he is required to sacrifice his daughter, Iphigenia. The film borrows themes of guilt, sacrifice, and revenge from this tragic tale.
The Impact on the Characters
The poison in the film not only affects Steven but also his wife, Anna, played by Nicole Kidman, and their two children, Kim and Bob. As the poison infiltrates their lives, the characters are forced to confront their darkest secrets and confront the consequences of their choices.
Steven’s guilt and inner turmoil escalate throughout the film, leading him to face an impossible decision that will determine the fate of his family. Anna, on the other hand, struggles with her loyalty to her husband and protecting her children while facing the harsh realities of their situation.
The children, Kim and Bob, become pawns in this dangerous game of revenge and guilt. They are thrust into an unimaginable situation where their lives are at stake, leaving them with no choice but to navigate their way through the toxicity of their family’s dynamics.
The Film’s Poetic Symbolism
“The Killing of a Sacred Deer” is filled with poetic symbolism that enriches the film’s narrative. The poison acts as a representation of the irreversible damage caused by past actions. It symbolizes the haunting consequences that follow us, much like a deer wounded by a hunter’s arrow.
Moreover, “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” utilizes a minimalist and atmospheric soundtrack to enhance the haunting atmosphere. The combination of the film’s symbolic visuals and eerie score creates a sense of unease and tension, effectively immersing the audience in the film’s world.
In Conclusion
The poison in “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” serves as a potent symbol, representing guilt, moral ambiguity, and the toxic nature of secrets. Inspired by Greek tragedy, the film explores the consequences of past actions and forces the characters to confront their darkest truths.
Through its poetic symbolism and atmospheric storytelling, “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” takes viewers on an unsettling journey that delves into the complexities of human nature and the devastating consequences of our choices.
Frequently Asked Questions Of The Killing Of A Sacred Deer: Unraveling The Poison Mystery
Q: What Was The Poison Used In “the Killing Of A Sacred Deer”?
A: The poison used in the movie is an unidentified anesthetic, assumed to be a potent muscle relaxant.
Q: Is The Poison In The Movie Based On A Real Substance?
A: No, the poison used in “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” is fictional and does not exist in real life.
Q: Can The Poison In The Movie Really Paralyze Someone’s Legs?
A: While the movie portrays the poison as causing paralysis, no real-life substance can produce such a specific effect.
Q: What Are The Symptoms Of The Poison In The Movie?
A: The poison in “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” causes gradual paralysis starting from the legs and moving upwards.