Peaky Blinders has taken the world by storm, captivating audiences with its gritty portrayal of post-World War I Britain. If you’re new to the show or a seasoned fan looking to delve deeper and read more about the upcoming movie, here’s everything you need to know about Peaky Blinders.
What is Peaky Blinders about?
Peaky Blinders is a British television series that revolves around the Shelby family, a gang of ruthless yet charismatic criminals operating in Birmingham, England, during the aftermath of World War I. The series primarily follows Thomas “Tommy” Shelby (portrayed by Cillian Murphy), the ambitious leader of the Peaky Blinders gang.
The show is a mix of historical events and fiction, weaving in crime, power struggles, and political intrigue. Tommy Shelby’s ambition drives him to expand his family’s influence beyond Birmingham, navigating a treacherous landscape filled with rival gangs, law enforcement, and political figures.
When is the show set?
Peaky Blinders is set in the turbulent period following World War I, starting in 1919. The show spans the years between the wars, and as the series progresses, it captures the roaring 1920s, the Great Depression of the 1930s, and the lead-up to World War II. This historical backdrop provides a rich setting for the drama, reflecting the real-life struggles and upheavals of the era.
What is a Peaky Blinder?
The term “Peaky Blinders” comes from their practice of sewing razor blades into the peaks of their flat caps, which they used as weapons.
Is the story true?
While Peaky Blinders is inspired by real events and historical figures, it is largely a work of fiction. The Peaky Blinders gang did exist in Birmingham, but their reign was primarily in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, earlier than the show’s setting. The show’s creator, Steven Knight, drew inspiration from stories his parents told him about the gang, and then he took creative liberties to develop the series.
The cast of Peaky Blinders
Oscar winner Cillian Murphy, who delivers a mesmerizing performance as complex and brooding gang leader Thomas Shelby, has been widely acclaimed, and the ensemble cast is central to the show’s success. Other key cast members include:
- Helen McCrory as Polly Gray, the formidable matriarch of the Shelby family and the gang’s treasurer. Helen sadly passed away before filming commenced on Season Six, and her character was honoured in the first episode of the season.
- Paul Anderson as Arthur Shelby, Tommy’s volatile older brother.
- Sophie Rundle as Ada Shelby, Tommy’s sister who initially distances herself from the family’s criminal activities.
- Joe Cole as John Shelby, Tommy’s younger brother who is fiercely loyal to the family.
- Tom Hardy as Alfie Solomons, a charismatic and unpredictable Jewish gang leader in London.
At this stage, Cillian is the only confirmed cast member from the TV show for the movie. However, Rebecca Ferguson – of The Greatest Showman, Dune and Mission: Impossible fame – is set to star in the Peaky Blinders film too. But details about Rebecca’s role are being kept under wraps.
How many seasons of Peaky Blinders are there?
The Netflix show has six seasons. The show premiered in 2013 and quickly gained a dedicated following. Each season consists of six episodes, packed with intense drama, intricate plotting, and stunning cinematography. The series has received numerous awards and nominations, solidifying its place as one of the most acclaimed television dramas of the past decade.
Is there a movie?
In exciting news for fans, a feature film has been confirmed. Cillian Murphy is set to reprise his role as Tommy Shelby, and filming began in October 2024.
Murphy will also be part of the production team, working alongside Steven Knight and director Tom Harper, who previously directed three episodes in the first season.
In a statement released by Netflix to X, Cillian shared his excitement for the project.
“It seems like Tommy Shelby wasn’t finished with me…It is very gratifying to be recollaborating with Steven Knight and Tom Harper on the film version of Peaky Blinders. This is one for the fans.”
Where to watch Peaky Blinders?
Along with the upcoming movie, all six seasons of Peaky Blinders are available to stream on Netflix.
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