So here is the harder prayer: Love without losing yourself. Honour without breaking another. Obey only what you have first questioned.
But statues have shadows. And in the absence of light, even virtue becomes a weapon.
We are taught to worship three statues: Love, Honour, and Obey. They stand in the cathedral of tradition, carved from marble smooth as a mother’s lullaby. We polish them daily with the soft cloth of good intentions, believing them to be the pillars of righteousness, the architecture of a civilized soul. deadly virtues: love honour obey
One of the most discussed—and controversial—aspects of the film is the portrayal of the husband, Tom. Early in the film, it is revealed that Tom is unfaithful and somewhat neglectful. Aaron uses this to justify his tyranny, positioning himself as a moral arbiter. This creates an uncomfortable tension for the audience, as the lines between "villain" and "unorthodox therapist" occasionally blur, though the film ultimately condemns Aaron’s actions.
Deadly Virtues: Love. Honour. Obey. is a polarizing film. It is useful as a case study in and character acting , but it is not a "comfort watch." It succeeds as a dark examination of the hypocrisy often hidden behind closed doors in domestic life, even if it stumbles in its execution during the finale. So here is the harder prayer: Love without losing yourself
: It had its world premiere at the Raindance Film Festival in 2013.
The true virtue is not love—it is tender vigilance . Not honour—but integrous humility . Not obedience—but willing alignment . But statues have shadows
The film follows a middle-class couple, (Matt Barber) and Alison (Megan Maczko), whose lives are upended when a mysterious intruder named Aaron (Edward Akrout) breaks into their home on a Friday night.
: Expect extreme emotional intensity. Reviews warn of "make your skin crawl" moments involving torture, bondage, and psychological manipulation. While some found the third act "padded" or "ridiculous," others praised the "shocking twist" ending. IMDb +7 Useful Perspectives for Viewers Source Verdict Key Takeaway IMDb User Reviews 6/10 Both repels and attracts; handle with care if sensitive to torture themes. Horror DNA Positive/Mixed A "powerfully administered medicine" that serves as a catalyst for the protagonist's liberation. ScreenAnarchy Positive A "great revenge" film with standout acting, though "obviously not for everybody". Cinema365 Cautionary A sobering look at domestic abuse that may be triggering for survivors of sexual abuse. Bottom Line