The directing and writing team of Yorgos Lanthimos and Efthymis Filippou have been a pretty well known arthouse combo for the last eight years. With films like Dogtooth and The Lobster, they have put together some very quirky and unique films. The Lobster was generally a “hit” for fans of genre films. Recently, their latest movie, The Killing of a Sacred Deer, was released by A24, the distribution company, who have begun to pick up some very well received arthouse horror films such as It Comes At Night. Starring Colin Farrell and Nicole Kidman, The Killing for a Sacred Deer has received great reviews and had a strong run in limited release.

Surgeon Steven Murphy has an odd mentor relationship with teenager Martin. They meet for lunch, gives him gifts, and shows kindness to this otherwise awkward boy. Yet the friendship may be based on guilt since Dr. Murphy was operating on Martin’s father when the man passed away. Soon Martin is invited to dinner at the Murphy family. When Steven’s wife Anna begins to become curious at this unique bond between an ex-patient’s son and her husband, both her own children suddenly become ill. Steven soon learns that there may nefarious causes to the illness behind Anna and his children. As a result, Steven may have to make the hardest decision of his life.

The film has a solid 79% rating on Rottentomatoes. No matter, its odd dialogue reading and unexplained mystery has given general audiences mixed reviews. Yet the acting and cinematography have been praised all around. Dark Discussions takes a look at this somewhat contentious film and gives their critique.