Is Cillian Murphy Really Nothing Like Tommy Shelby from Peaky Blinders?

Cillian Murphy, renowned for his role as Tommy Shelby in the acclaimed series Peaky Blinders, has clarified that he is fundamentally different from his on-screen character, asserting he is not a "psychopathic gangster". His portrayal of Shelby has been a defining aspect of his career, and as he promotes his new film, Steve, he reflects on the impact of Peaky Blinders and teases an upcoming film continuation.

Last updated: 04 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Cillian Murphy distinguishes himself from Tommy Shelby, stating he is not a "psychopathic gangster".
• The Peaky Blinders film, written by creator Steven Knight, is highly anticipated but details remain secret.
• Murphy describes his time on Peaky Blinders as "defining" and a unique opportunity in long-form television.
• His new film, Steve, explores themes of education, mental health, and adolescent struggles.
• Steve is currently in cinemas and set to stream on Netflix next month.

Murphy's Perspective on Tommy Shelby

In recent interviews, Cillian Murphy has expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play Tommy Shelby for nearly a decade. He described it as a "gift and a privilege" to embody a character that has resonated deeply with audiences since Peaky Blinders first aired in 2013. However, Murphy is keen to highlight that he is distinctly different from Shelby, a character marked by violence and complex moral dilemmas.

Reflecting on his character's evolution, Murphy noted that playing Tommy Shelby has been a "defining" aspect of his life. "To grow older with a character, you don't really get to do that, and that is the joy of long-form television," he said. This longevity has allowed him to explore the nuances of Shelby's character while also pursuing diverse roles in other projects.

The Anticipated Peaky Blinders Film

Fans of Peaky Blinders are eagerly awaiting the upcoming film continuation. While specific plot details remain confidential, Murphy confirmed that the film has been penned by the series' creator, Steven Knight. He suggested that maintaining an air of mystery around the film enhances its appeal, stating, "I think it's better to keep it under wraps, keep it a surprise." This approach has only heightened anticipation among the show's loyal followers.

The film is reported to build upon the rich narrative and character arcs established throughout the six series of Peaky Blinders. Murphy's portrayal of Shelby will likely continue to captivate audiences, as he has done since the show's inception.

Exploring New Themes in Steve

In addition to his work on Peaky Blinders, Murphy is currently promoting his latest film, Steve. The film follows the titular character, played by Murphy, as he attempts to navigate the challenges of running a reform school for troubled boys in the 1990s. The narrative unfolds over a single day, where a series of events test Steve's resilience and emotional stability.

Murphy describes Steve as a love letter to educators, who he views as "custodians of the next generation." The film delves into significant themes such as education in challenging environments, men's mental health, and the struggles of adolescent boys. Despite being set more than 30 years ago, Murphy notes that the issues explored in the film remain relevant today, highlighting the timeless nature of these societal challenges.

The Character Dynamics in Steve

In Steve, viewers witness the parallels between Murphy's character and one of the students, Shy, played by Jay Lycurgo. The two characters, despite being at different life stages, reflect similar struggles and emotions. Murphy elaborates, "It's a flip-side of a coin what these characters are experiencing and they just can't reach each other." This connection emphasises the film's exploration of interpersonal relationships and the barriers that often exist between individuals.

Collaboration with Max Porter

Steve is based on the novella Shy, written by Max Porter, who has adapted the story for the screen. This collaboration isn't new for Murphy, as he previously worked with Porter on the stage play Grief Is the Thing with Feathers. Their shared understanding of complex human emotions and experiences likely enriches the narrative depth of Steve.

Reception and Future Projects

As Steve opens in cinemas, early reactions indicate that audiences are resonating with its emotional depth and thematic richness. Murphy has expressed that the conversations around the film are varied, with viewers interpreting the narrative through their own life experiences. This multifaceted reaction is indicative of the film's capacity to engage with contemporary issues while remaining rooted in personal stories.

Looking ahead, Murphy's involvement in the upcoming Peaky Blinders film alongside his work in Steve demonstrates his versatility as an actor. The balance between these two distinct narratives showcases his range and commitment to exploring diverse characters and stories.

Conclusion

Cillian Murphy's exploration of complex characters, from the violent world of Peaky Blinders to the nuanced struggles of educators in Steve, highlights his ability to engage with a variety of themes. As audiences prepare for the Peaky Blinders film and embrace his latest cinematic venture, questions arise about the lasting impact of these narratives on contemporary society. How do characters like Tommy Shelby and Steve reflect the challenges we face today?

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FAQs

Is Cillian Murphy similar to his character Tommy Shelby?

Cillian Murphy has clarified that he is not like Tommy Shelby, stating he is not a "psychopathic gangster" and emphasising his distinct personal characteristics.

What is the plot of the upcoming Peaky Blinders film?

Details about the Peaky Blinders film's plot remain under wraps. However, it has been confirmed that it will continue the story from the series, written by creator Steven Knight.

What themes does the film Steve explore?

Steve explores themes of education in challenging environments, men's mental health, and adolescent violence, reflecting on issues that remain relevant today.

Who wrote the film Steve?

The film Steve is based on the novella Shy, written by Max Porter, who also adapted the story for the screen.

When will Steve be released on Netflix?

Steve is currently in cinemas and is scheduled to be released on Netflix next month, allowing a wider audience to experience the film.