Cillian Murphy is set to reprise his iconic role as Tommy Shelby in the highly anticipated movie adaptation of Peaky Blinders, currently in production.
On September 30, the first-look image from the film was released, featuring Murphy once again embodying the infamous Birmingham gangster. In a statement, the actor expressed his excitement: “It seems that Tommy Shelby and I are not done yet. It’s truly a pleasure to collaborate once more with Steven Knight and Tom Harper on the movie version of Peaky Blinders. This is a gift for the fans.”
The film will be directed by Tom Harper, who has previously directed several episodes of the hit series. In August, the production team announced that Barry Keoghan, an Irish actor, and Rebecca Ferguson would join the cast in significant roles. Fans speculate that their characters may have deep connections to Tommy Shelby, though details remain under wraps. The rest of the cast has yet to be officially revealed.
Challenges with Arthur Shelby’s Role
Paul Anderson, who portrays Arthur Shelby, the eldest brother of the Shelby crime family, faces legal troubles. On January 25, Anderson admitted to four drug-related charges. He was released on bail and fined $1,500. It remains unclear how these charges will affect his participation in the upcoming film.
Peaky Blinders: A Global Phenomenon
The Peaky Blinders series first aired in 2013 on BBC Two, before Netflix acquired the rights to stream it internationally. Set in post-World War I Birmingham, England, the show chronicles the rise of the Shelby family’s criminal empire during the 1920s. The series has garnered numerous accolades, particularly in the UK and Ireland. Murphy’s portrayal of Tommy Shelby earned him a nomination for Best Actor at the 2018 BAFTA Awards.
Cillian Murphy’s Legacy
At 48, Cillian Murphy continues to solidify his position as one of the most talented actors of his generation. Known for his roles in films like The Wind That Shakes the Barley (winner of the 2007 Cannes Palme d’Or), A Quiet Place Part II (2020), and his portrayal of Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders (2013-2022), Murphy’s career spans over two decades. His collaborations with visionary director Christopher Nolan—starting with The Dark Knight Trilogy (2005-2012)—further cemented his status as a leading actor.
In 2020, The Irish Times named Murphy one of the greatest Irish film actors of all time. Last year, he took home the Best Actor award for his portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the “father” of the atomic bomb, in Christopher Nolan’s critically acclaimed film Oppenheimer.
With the Peaky Blinders movie now underway, fans can look forward to seeing Murphy bring back the beloved yet dangerous Tommy Shelby, as the story of the notorious crime family continues on the big screen.
