Cillian Murphy Returns as Tommy Shelby in ‘Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man’
The iconic British period gangster series, Peaky Blinders, has made its leap to the big screen with ‘Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man,’ starring the phenomenal Cillian Murphy and the equally compelling Barry Keoghan. This Netflix-BBC coproduction, now playing in US and UK theaters, offers a cinematic extension of Tommy Shelby’s story – a traumatized WWI veteran and ruthless gangster whose legend Cillian Murphy has meticulously crafted over six gripping seasons.
As a long-time devotee of the show, the anticipation for this film was high. The beauty of Peaky Blinders lies in its accessibility; you don’t need prior knowledge of the series to be immediately immersed. It’s akin to a period-set The Sopranos, distinguished by its unique Midlands accents and a soundtrack brimming with modern rock anthems. The film swiftly establishes the necessary context, introducing viewers to Tommy Shelby and the infamous Peaky Blinders gang – named for the razor blades concealed within their flat caps, used for…unspeakable purposes.
A Familiar Vibe, Amplified for the Big Screen
Fans will be pleased to know that the film is penned by series creator Steven Knight and directed by Tom Harper, who helmed episodes in the earlier seasons. Stylistically, it remains true to the show’s signature aesthetic. Brutal violence unfolds within the dimly lit pubs, juxtaposed with Tommy’s opium-induced visions, haunting apparitions of the deceased, and elements of supernatural gypsy witchcraft. It’s a distinct and captivating atmosphere.
We find a gray-haired, bespectacled, and haunted Tommy Shelby secluded in his manor, grappling with the aftermath of season six. He’s attempting to immortalize his life story on paper, a desperate effort to exorcise his inner demons. Meanwhile, his estranged son, Duke (Barry Keoghan), has risen to power, leading the Peaky Blinders and profiting from the chaos of WWII-era Birmingham, England.
Keoghan Shines as the New King of Birmingham
Barry Keoghan’s performance is nothing short of brilliant. He embodies Duke with a sneering disdain, chilling brutality, and a palpable sense of panic when pushed to his limits. It’s a masterful portrayal that elevates the film. The return of Stephen Graham as Liverpudlian gangster Stagg, a loyal ally to Tommy Shelby, adds another layer of depth to the narrative.
Cillian Murphy, as always, is commanding and elegant in his portrayal of Tommy Shelby. While the show often incorporates real-life historical figures, the film’s plot doesn’t delve into Tommy’s potential involvement with British intelligence or Winston Churchill. Instead, the narrative centers around a treacherous figure, John Beckett (Tim Roth), who plans to destabilize the British economy by distributing Nazi counterfeit currency through gangs like the Peaky Blinders.
A High-Stakes Confrontation
The central conflict arises as Tommy is inevitably drawn back into the fray, confronting his wayward son, Duke. Tim Roth delivers a deliciously villainous performance as Beckett, a character who revels in his own malevolence. The film boasts impressive production value, with striking visuals of bombed-out cityscapes and meticulously crafted period costumes. While not a AAA gaming experience, it’s a solid AA production that delivers a visually compelling experience.
’Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man’ will be available on Netflix on March 20th. For those unfamiliar with the series, it’s a worthwhile investment – a month’s subscription will grant access to an exhilarating, fast-paced crime drama with a unique swagger. Knight hints that this film is merely a stepping stone to future seasons, promising more to come. For fans, a trip to the cinema is a must. By order of the Peaky Blinders!
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