Cillian Murphy best underrated movie roles have captivated audiences for decades, but one of his lesser-known performances in the 2012 drama Broken is now available to stream for free, offering fans the chance to experience one of his most powerful portrayals to date. This film, directed by Rufus Norris and featuring a compelling ensemble cast, reveals the raw emotional depth Murphy brings to every role and highlights his exceptional versatility in the world of cinema.
An Intimate Drama Inspired by Classic Literature
Broken, released in 2012 and inspired by Daniel Clay’s novel influenced by Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, takes viewers to North London where 11-year-old Skunk Cunningham, played by Eloise Laurence, is at the heart of three interwoven stories shaped by trauma and human connection. Skunk lives with her single father Archie, portrayed by Tim Roth, her older brother Jed (Bill Milner), and their au pair. She forms a close friendship with Rick (Robert Emms), a gentle neighbor whose life is upended following a false accusation that sets off a series of tragic events.
The film delves into how one incident—a brutal assault prompted by these false claims—sets off a string of consequences not only for Rick but for Skunk and the entire community. The chaos unfolds against the backdrop of suburban life, as the characters each grapple with the fallout from a violent event witnessed by the young girl, forcing her to confront the complexities of adulthood far too soon. This emotionally charged story explores how trauma can ripple through even the closest relationships, sometimes with devastating results.
Cillian Murphy’s Emotional Performance as a Compassionate Teacher
By the time Broken premiered, Cillian Murphy was already recognized for his work in celebrated titles such as 28 Days Later, The Wind That Shakes the Barley, and Inception, plus he was soon to star as Tommy Shelby in the acclaimed TV series Peaky Blinders. In Broken, Murphy plays Mike Kiernan, Skunk’s supportive teacher who emerges as a stabilizing influence during the turbulence in her life.
Murphy’s portrayal stands out for its quiet intensity and nuanced vulnerability, offering a counterpoint to the violence and upheaval in the story. As Mike Kiernan, he brings a mix of sympathy and steadfastness, striving to guide Skunk through her darkest moments while facing the community’s unraveling consequences himself. The understated complexity of Murphy’s performance earned him a nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the British Independent Film Awards, and his deeply moving scenes with Eloise Laurence were widely praised by audiences and critics alike.
A Film That Balances Tragedy and Hope
What sets Broken apart from other coming-of-age stories is its frank depiction of how life doesn’t always offer neat or happy endings. The narrative illustrates that pain and tragedy are sometimes unavoidable, but resilience and compassion can emerge in unexpected ways. The film’s exploration of false accusations, family bonds, and personal growth resonates through its well-crafted screenplay and strong ensemble performances. Tim Roth, as Archie, and Zana Marjanović, who plays the au pair Kasia, also deliver memorable turns alongside Murphy and Laurence.
Rufus Norris’s direction and the cinematography give Broken a visually striking and emotionally layered quality, while the ensemble cast—including Rory Kinnear as a key neighbor involved in the turmoil—brings authenticity and depth to the intertwined stories. In its debut at the Cannes Film Festival, the film was met with critical acclaim for its honest depiction of trauma and relationships, standing out among audiences seeking profound, character-driven drama.
Critical Acclaim and Where to Watch
The Hollywood Reporter praised the film’s ability to balance intense emotional shifts, writing:
“The film is rich in poignant moments and negotiates its frequent shifts from violence to gentleness to sorrow with sensitivity.”
This acclaim is echoed by many viewers who were moved by the performances and the story’s powerful message about facing adversity. The interplay between Cillian Murphy’s teacher, Tim Roth’s father figure, and Eloise Laurence’s Skunk makes this film a standout in each of their filmographies, cementing its place as a deeply underrated classic among Cillian Murphy best underrated movie roles.
Broken is now streaming for free on Tubi, allowing a new audience to discover this hidden gem. Fans of coming-of-age dramas—and anyone interested in seeing the range of Murphy’s talent—will find the film’s exploration of trust, trauma, and the complexities of growing up both haunting and hopeful.
With its combination of masterful performances, real-world themes, and memorable direction, Broken is a testament to the power of film to illuminate the human condition. As Cillian Murphy continues to earn accolades for his recent work in Oppenheimer and beyond, Broken stands as proof that even his lesser-known roles can leave a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike.
