
Cillian Murphy expresses pride after 13 years as Tommy Shelby
Cillian Murphy expresses pride after 13 years as Tommy Shelby
- The film Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man was released in cinemas on March 6, 2026, featuring Cillian Murphy and Barry Keoghan.
- Critics have responded positively to the film, resulting in high ratings on Rotten Tomatoes.
- Cillian Murphy expressed immense pride in his lengthy portrayal of the character Tommy Shelby, marking an end to an iconic role.
Story
The film Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man was released in cinemas on March 6, 2026, following the acclaimed British crime drama series. This film marks a significant transition for the show, which aired its last episode in 2022. In this new installment, Cillian Murphy reprises his defining role as Tommy Shelby, a notorious gangster, amidst the backdrop of World War II. Tommy returns from a forced retreat, engaging with the complexities of his legacy and fatherhood as he is forced to confront his past decisions about his family. Alongside Murphy is Barry Keoghan as Erasmus 'Duke' Shelby, Tommy's illegitimate son navigating his strained relationship with his father in a turbulent landscape. Critics have provided positive feedback on the film, currently holding a 91% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Reviews focus on the strong performances, particularly from Murphy and Keoghan, and a rock-infused soundtrack that enhances the film's connection to its series roots. Critics highlight the film's ability to effectively continue and conclude the original series narrative without feeling redundant, drawing on the established themes of family, legacy, and conflict. Some reviews suggest that a deep investment in the TV series enhances the viewing experience; however, the film manages to resonate with both fans and newcomers alike. Cillian Murphy, reflecting on his extensive portrayal of Tommy Shelby, expressed profound pride in his contribution to the character over more than a decade. Murphy noted that this long engagement allowed him to deeply explore the character's evolution, stating, 'I’ll never experience that again.' He discussed how the prolonged timeline provided an opportunity to mature alongside his character, gaining a unique perspective on Tommy's motivations and actions throughout the series. Consequently, the film’s exploration of fatherhood is pivotal, emphasizing themes that resonate with audiences. Furthermore, Barry Keoghan revealed he drew inspiration from his personal experiences of parental absence to shape his performance as Duke Shelby. His character, intertwined with Tommy, represents the ongoing impact of childhood trauma and abandonment, adding layers to the film's exploration of familial bonds. The narrative intertwines Duke's chaotic nature with his search for identity and paternal connection, enabling Keoghan to portray a nuanced character amid the film’s dramatic backdrop. The film's story challenges the audience to reflect on the implications of familial legacy against the harsh realities of war, crime, and morality.