DINH DOONG

Cillian Murphy, celebrated for his roles in Peaky Blinders and Oppenheimer, recently stunned fans with a striking new look at the premiere of his latest project, sparking widespread speculation about his preparation for the upcoming Peaky Blinders film.

The actor appeared almost unrecognizable, trading in his familiar dark hair for a bold platinum blonde makeover. This unexpected transformation accentuated his piercing blue eyes and sharp facial features, leaving fans in awe of his daring style change.

Murphy debuted his new look during the premiere of Small Things Like These in London, accompanied by co-stars Emily Watson and Eileen Walsh. The 48-year-old actor looked dapper in a burnt orange jacket paired with a muted green collared shirt and sleek black trousers. His updated appearance not only surprised fans but also showcased his timeless sense of fashion and youthful demeanor.

Slated for release on November 1, Small Things Like These is based on Claire Keegan’s novel of the same name. The film delves into the dark secrets surrounding Ireland’s Magdalene laundries, a sensitive topic tied to Ireland’s troubled history. Murphy plays the lead role of Bill Furlong, a coal merchant in 1985 who stumbles upon shocking secrets within a local convent. These discoveries force him to confront unsettling truths about the Irish town of New Ross—and ultimately about himself. Murphy also took on the role of producer for the film, collaborating with Hollywood star Matt Damon on the project.

In addition to promoting Small Things Like These, Murphy has been the center of attention due to his involvement in the highly anticipated Peaky Blinders movie, which promises to extend the thrilling narrative of Tommy Shelby. The original series, which aired over six seasons and gained a devoted global fan base, concluded in 2022. However, fans have long been eager for more, and the announcement of the film The Immortal Man has reignited their excitement.

Steven Knight, the show’s creator, confirmed the film’s production, expressing his enthusiasm: “I’m genuinely thrilled that this movie is about to happen. It will be an explosive chapter in the Peaky Blinders story. No holds barred. Full-on Peaky Blinders at war.” Director Tom Harper, who worked on the original series, also shared his excitement: “Peaky has always been a story about family, and so it’s incredibly exciting to be reuniting with Steve and Cillian to bring the movie to audiences across the world on Netflix.”

Murphy himself provided a glimpse into his mindset about returning to the role that has defined much of his career, telling Deadline earlier this year: “It seems like Tommy Shelby wasn’t finished with me. It is very gratifying to be re-collaborating with Steven Knight and Tom Harper on the film version of Peaky Blinders. This is one for the fans.”

Fans are eagerly anticipating the return of familiar characters, with Tom Hardy’s Alfie Solomons rumored to make a comeback alongside Murphy’s Tommy Shelby. Alfie, an enigmatic and unpredictable figure, has become a fan-favorite character, and his dynamic relationship with Tommy adds another layer of intrigue to the film’s narrative.

The movie will begin production in September 2024, with plot details suggesting it will venture beyond the timeline established by the series. According to Caryn Mandabach, one of the show’s producers, the film offers a fresh storyline: “Most viewers already know what happens after the final scene of the series, where Tommy rides off into the sunset, leaving behind a burning carriage. This film will take fans on a new journey, one that explores unexpected dimensions of the Peaky Blinders world.”

Murphy’s commitment to his craft is evident not only in his physical transformations but also in the diversity of his upcoming roles. Alongside the Peaky Blinders film, the actor is also set to star in the third installment of the 28 Days Later franchise, marking a return to the series that catapulted him to fame.

With a remarkable 2024 already under his belt, including an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in Oppenheimer, Murphy continues to captivate audiences worldwide. His ability to seamlessly transition between emotionally complex characters and action-driven roles solidifies his status as one of the most versatile actors of his generation.

As fans eagerly await the release of The Immortal Man, the excitement surrounding Murphy’s latest transformation serves as a reminder of his dedication to storytelling. Whether donning platinum locks or stepping back into the shoes of Tommy Shelby, Murphy’s performances never fail to leave a lasting impression.

With filming for The Immortal Man just around the corner, fans can expect the same level of intensity and drama that defined the original series—only this time, on an even grander scale. As Murphy embarks on yet another cinematic journey, one thing is clear: the legacy of Tommy Shelby is far from over.