The first look at the highly anticipated film adaptation of the popular series Peaky Blinders has been revealed, featuring acclaimed actors Cillian Murphy and Barry Keoghan. The 70-second teaser, released by Netflix on Christmas Eve, showcases Murphy reprising his role as the iconic character, Tommy Shelby, who faces an identity crisis during the tumultuous backdrop of the Second World War.
In the teaser, a voiceover poses the question, “Whatever happened to Tommy Shelby? The famous gypsy gangster?” This sets the stage for a narrative that finds Tommy returning from self-imposed exile. The film, titled Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, depicts a character grappling with his past, as he asserts, “I’m not that man anymore.” The trailer also provides glimpses of Keoghan’s character, who is seen wearing a white vest and displaying tattoos.
Returning and New Talent in the Spotlight
The film continues the story of the Shelby crime family, which captivated audiences across its six seasons on the BBC. The series began in 2013 and charted the family’s rise in Birmingham, covering events from the end of the First World War to the conclusion of Prohibition in the United States. Returning cast members include Sophie Rundle as Ada Shelby and Stephen Graham as union convener Hayden Stagg, alongside Packy Lee as Tommy’s friend Johnny Dogs.
The film also introduces a fresh roster of talent, including Rebecca Ferguson from Dune and Tim Roth of Reservoir Dogs fame. Directed by Tom Harper and written by series creator Steven Knight, the film is set to premiere in cinemas on March 6, 2024, followed by its availability on Netflix from March 20, 2024.
Future of the Peaky Blinders Franchise
In an exciting development, the BBC has announced plans for a spin-off series that will explore a new generation of Shelbys, set in 1953, years after the events of the upcoming film. Filming will take place at Digbeth Loc Studios in Birmingham. Although Cillian Murphy will return as an executive producer, it remains unclear if he will reprise his role as Tommy Shelby in this new chapter.
The Peaky Blinders phenomenon has significantly influenced popular culture, even inspiring a ballet adaptation by Rambert Studios. The final season of the series aired in 2022, leaving viewers on edge as Tommy Shelby faced a life-altering revelation regarding his health.
Since its debut, Peaky Blinders has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following, particularly after moving to BBC One in 2019. The series won a BAFTA for Best Drama Series during its fourth season and has played a pivotal role in elevating the profiles of its cast, including Tom Hardy, Anya Taylor-Joy, and the late Helen McCrory.
As anticipation builds for Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, fans eagerly await the next chapter in the storied legacy of the Shelby family.
