The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017), directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, is a psychological thriller that leaves audiences both captivated and disturbed. One of the most intriguing and debated aspects of the film is the mysterious “poison” that afflicts the family of Dr. Steven Murphy (played by Colin Farrell). What exactly is this poison? How does it work? And what does it symbolize? In this in-depth article, we’ll explore these questions and more, providing a comprehensive breakdown of the poison’s role in the film. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or just curious about its deeper meanings, this article will offer valuable insights and answers.
Introduction to The Killing of a Sacred Deer
Before diving into the poison, let’s set the stage. The Killing of a Sacred Deer is a dark, unsettling film that follows Dr. Steven Murphy, a successful cardiologist, and his seemingly perfect family. However, their lives take a sinister turn when Martin (Barry Keoghan), a teenage boy with a mysterious connection to Steven, begins to infiltrate their lives. Martin reveals that Steven is responsible for the death of his father and demands retribution. Soon after, Steven’s family begins to fall victim to a strange and inexplicable illness—paralysis, loss of appetite, and bleeding from the eyes. Martin explains that this is a curse, and Steven must make an unthinkable choice to lift it.
The film is a modern retelling of the ancient Greek tragedy Iphigenia at Aulis by Euripides, blending psychological horror with moral ambiguity. At the heart of the story is the poison—or curse—that drives the plot and forces the characters to confront their deepest fears and flaws.
The Poison: What We Know
The poison in The Killing of a Sacred Deer is unlike any conventional toxin. Here’s what the film reveals about it:
- Symptoms: The poison causes paralysis, loss of appetite, bleeding from the eyes, and eventually death.
- Transmission: It’s not contagious in the traditional sense. Instead, it seems to be tied to Martin’s will and Steven’s actions.
- Cure: The only way to lift the curse is for Steven to kill one member of his family, as dictated by Martin.
The poison is never explained in scientific terms, leaving viewers to interpret its nature and origins.
The Science Behind the Poison (Or Lack Thereof)
One of the most fascinating aspects of the poison is its lack of a scientific explanation. Unlike typical movie toxins, which are often rooted in real-world biology or chemistry, this poison operates on a more symbolic and supernatural level. Here’s why:
- No Medical Explanation: Despite Steven being a doctor, he’s unable to diagnose or treat the illness. Medical tests show no abnormalities, suggesting that the poison is beyond the realm of science.
- Supernatural Elements: The poison’s connection to Martin’s curse implies that it’s not a physical substance but rather a manifestation of guilt, justice, or fate.
This ambiguity is intentional, as it forces viewers to focus on the moral and emotional aspects of the story rather than the mechanics of the poison itself.
Symbolism and Themes: What Does the Poison Represent?
The poison serves as a powerful symbol in the film, representing several key themes:
Guilt and Retribution
The poison can be seen as a physical manifestation of Steven’s guilt over his role in Martin’s father’s death. It’s a form of retribution, forcing Steven to confront the consequences of his actions.
Moral Corruption
The illness that afflicts Steven’s family symbolizes the corruption of their seemingly perfect lives. As the poison takes hold, their flaws and vulnerabilities are exposed.
Fate and Justice
The poison operates like a curse from Greek mythology, representing the inescapable nature of fate and the idea that justice must be served, no matter how cruel or arbitrary it may seem.
The Moral Dilemma: Steven’s Choices and Consequences
At the heart of the film is the moral dilemma Steven faces: to save his family, he must kill one of them. This impossible choice raises profound questions about morality, sacrifice, and the value of human life. Here’s how the poison drives this dilemma:
- The Ultimatum: Martin gives Steven a choice—kill one family member, or they will all die. This ultimatum forces Steven to weigh the lives of his loved ones against each other.
- The Consequences: Steven’s indecision and attempts to find another solution only prolong the suffering, highlighting the futility of trying to escape fate.
Comparisons to Greek Tragedy
The Killing of a Sacred Deer draws heavily from Greek tragedy, particularly Iphigenia at Aulis. In the original story, Agamemnon must sacrifice his daughter Iphigenia to appease the gods and ensure victory in the Trojan War. Similarly, Steven is forced to make a horrific sacrifice to lift the curse. The poison serves as the modern equivalent of the divine punishment in Greek myths, emphasizing the themes of fate, justice, and the inevitability of suffering.
Fan Theories and Interpretations
The mysterious nature of the poison has sparked numerous fan theories and interpretations. Here are some of the most popular:
- Psychological Poison: Some viewers believe the poison is a metaphor for the psychological toll of guilt and trauma, affecting the family’s mental and emotional state rather than their physical health.
- Supernatural Curse: Others argue that the poison is a literal curse, rooted in supernatural forces beyond human understanding.
- Moral Test: Another interpretation is that the poison is a test of Steven’s morality, forcing him to confront his own flaws and make an impossible decision.
FAQs
Q1: Is the poison real, or is it all in their heads?
A: The film leaves this ambiguous. While the symptoms are physically real, the poison’s origins and nature suggest a supernatural or symbolic explanation.
Q2: Why can’t Steven find a cure for the poison?
A: The poison operates outside the bounds of science and medicine, making it impossible for Steven to treat or cure using conventional methods.
Q3: What does the poison symbolize?
A: The poison symbolizes guilt, retribution, and the inescapable nature of fate. It serves as a catalyst for the film’s moral and emotional conflicts.
Q4: Is there a real-world equivalent to the poison?
A: No, the poison is a fictional creation designed to serve the film’s themes and narrative.
Conclusion
The poison in The Killing of a Sacred Deer is more than just a plot device—it’s a symbol of the film’s central themes and conflicts. By leaving its nature unexplained, the film challenges viewers to grapple with questions of morality, justice, and the human condition. Whether interpreted as a supernatural curse, a psychological metaphor, or a modern take on Greek tragedy, the poison remains one of the most compelling and enigmatic elements of the story.
So, the next time you watch The Killing of a Sacred Deer, pay close attention to the poison. It’s not just a means to an end—it’s the heart of the film’s mystery and meaning.
