Cillian Murphy Returns as Tommy Shelby in Bloody New Image
The Oscar winner appears battered and bloodied in the first look at the upcoming Peaky Blinders movie set during World War II, premiering March 2026.
Oscar-winning actor Cillian Murphy makes his highly anticipated return to the gritty streets of Birmingham in a striking new photograph from the upcoming Netflix film. The image shows Murphy's iconic character Tommy Shelby looking worse for wear, covered in dirt and blood, sparking immediate speculation about what dangerous circumstances have led to his current state.
The photograph marks the first official glimpse of Murphy back in character since the beloved television series concluded. Set against the backdrop of 1940, the upcoming film will transport audiences to the early days of World War II, a significant time jump from the original show's timeline that followed the notorious gang's exploits in the early 1900s.
A New Chapter in Wartime Birmingham
The movie represents a bold new direction for the franchise, moving the story forward to one of history's most turbulent periods. While the original series explored the aftermath of World War I and its impact on the Shelby family, this new installment will dive into the chaos and uncertainty of the Second World War's beginning.
Murphy's disheveled appearance in the promotional image suggests that Tommy Shelby hasn't lost his knack for finding trouble, even as the world around him descends into global conflict. The character's signature intensity remains evident despite his battered condition, hinting at the high-stakes drama that awaits viewers.
From Small Screen Success to Netflix Feature
The transition from television series to feature film represents a significant milestone for the franchise. Netflix's involvement brings the story to a global streaming audience, potentially introducing the Shelby family saga to viewers who may have missed the original run.
The 1940 setting opens up numerous storytelling possibilities, as the Shelby gang will likely navigate not only their traditional criminal enterprises but also the challenges posed by wartime Britain. The historical backdrop provides rich material for exploring how organized crime adapted during one of the most challenging periods in modern history.
Fans eagerly awaiting Murphy's return will have to exercise patience, as the Netflix release isn't scheduled until March 2026. However, this first glimpse suggests that the wait will be worthwhile, promising the same intense drama and compelling character development that made the original series a global phenomenon.