The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)

I've followed the works of Yorgos Lathimos since college, and yet, my personal favorite film of his is the one nobody seems to talk about. The Killing of a Sacred Deer is a horror masterpiece. It came and went, without a peep from filmgoers. I admit, this cerebral, disturbing piece is not going to be everyone's cup of tea, but in terms of it's visual design and pacing, it's Lathimos's finest hour. This is a medical psychological thriller that leaves a strong taste in your mouth. The first shot is a slow zoom out of a failed open heart surgery. Lathimos, right from the beginning, assaults your comfort zone. The cinematography throughout is a direct nod to Stanley Kubrick, most notably, his work in The Shining. Every scene here is designed to look distorted and frightening, despite depicting minimal locations. Matched are chilling performances by Collin Farrell and Nicole Kidman. It's message seems to be the unintended consequences of Karma and how the human mind can bring about unforeseen illnesses psychosomatically. In that sense, this film is more resonant today than ever before. Maybe this isn't the kind of film you'd want to watch right now, but watch it soon you must. It's masterful work. 5 Stars.