---
title: "The Killing of a Sacred Deer"
year: 2017
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/the-killing-of-a-sacred-deer-2017"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 399057
imdb_id: null
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 121
community_rating: 7.0
vote_count: 0
content_rating: "R"
---

# The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/the-killing-of-a-sacred-deer-2017

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

The Killing of a Sacred Deer is a film first released in 2017. Catalogued under Drama, Thriller, Mystery. Produced and broadcast by Element Pictures, TPC, Film4 Productions. Current status: Released.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A celebrated surgeon's perfect family life unravels when a mysterious teen infiltrates his world."

### Why Watch
- Intriguing mystery surrounding a stranger
- Intense, slow-building suspense

### Caveats & Content Note
- Deliberately slow pace may challenge some viewers
- Tone & Suitability: The film has a bleak, unsettling tone and may be distressing for sensitive viewers.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: slow-burn, uneasy, ominous

## Streaming Availability Matrix

Direct streaming licensing updates dynamically. Consult the live tracking interface at https://www.archytele.com/show/the-killing-of-a-sacred-deer-2017#watch.

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Yorgos Lanthimos
- **Networks / Studios**: Element Pictures, TPC, Film4 Productions

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Colin Farrell** as *Steven Murphy*
- **Nicole Kidman** as *Anna Murphy*
- **Barry Keoghan** as *Martin Lang*
- **Raffey Cassidy** as *Kim Murphy*
- **Sunny Suljic** as *Bob Murphy*
- **Bill Camp** as *Matthew Williams*
- **Alicia Silverstone** as *Martin's Mother*
- **Herb Caillouet** as *Ed Thompson (Hospital Director)*
- **Barry G. Bernson** as *Dr. Larry Banks*
- **Denise Dal Vera** as *Mary Williams*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: What is the main character's profession?
Dr. Steven Murphy is a cardiovascular surgeon.

### Q: When was the film released?
It was released in the United States on October 20, 2017.

### Q: What genres does the film belong to?
The film is classified as drama, thriller, and mystery.

### Q: How long is the movie?
The runtime is approximately two hours and one minute.

### Q: What is the central conflict?
A mysterious teenage boy becomes increasingly involved in the surgeon's family life, creating tension.

## Grounded Source Citations

- [The Killing of a Sacred Deer — The Movie Database (TMDB)](https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/399057)

---
*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*