Cillian Murphy’s underrated thriller, Red Eye, is currently trending on Netflix, giving fans an opportunity to see the actor in a gripping role outside his more famous projects. This shift comes as Murphy has yet to return to the 28 Days Later franchise that jumpstarted his career, making Red Eye a perfect watch for those eager to enjoy his intense performances.
Red Eye Joins Netflix and Brings a Gripping Thriller from Wes Craven
Netflix recently added Red Eye to its streaming catalog, and the film has quickly become one of the platform’s popular offerings. Directed by the legendary horror filmmaker Wes Craven, known for classics like A Nightmare on Elm Street and Scream, Red Eye presents Murphy in one of his most memorable villainous roles. In the film, Murphy plays Jackson, a charming but menacing stranger who sits beside Rachel McAdams’s character, Lisa, on a late-night flight. What starts as a seemingly innocent interaction soon reveals a dangerous plot, as Jackson forces Lisa to assist him in a deadly scheme by threatening her father, played by Brian Cox.
While fans await Murphy’s return to the 28 Days Later series, where his character Jim is expected to make a comeback in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, Red Eye offers a thrilling alternative. The movie’s confined setting and escalating tension have drawn comparisons to other suspense films like Drop, starring Meghann Fahy, where a female protagonist must protect a loved one while thwarting a villain’s plan.
Exploring Why Red Eye Remains an Overlooked Highlight in Murphy’s Filmography
Despite being a commercial success when released—earning close to $100 million worldwide and receiving an 80% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes—Red Eye has not maintained the profile of some of Murphy’s other films. However, it remains a standout work in his career due to its sharp focus and strong cast performances.
Murphy’s portrayal of Jackson is chilling and commanding, offering a contrast to his more heroic or complex roles. His chemistry with Rachel McAdams intensifies the suspense and emotional stakes, creating an engaging dynamic that drives the narrative forward. Although Murphy has publicly downplayed Red Eye as “not a very good movie,” many viewers appreciate its straightforward thrills and relentless pacing. The film avoids overcomplication, instead relying on a confined setting and a tense cat-and-mouse game that keeps audiences captivated.
The film also showcases Wes Craven’s skill in crafting suspense, diverging from his usual slasher style to deliver a tight, psychological thriller. This different approach highlights why Craven remains a respected figure in horror and suspense filmmaking, and Murphy’s effective villainy adds an additional layer of intrigue.
What Audiences Can Expect from the Cast and Story
Red Eye features Rachel McAdams as Lisa Reisert, the unsuspecting passenger caught in Jackson’s deadly scheme, with Cillian Murphy as Jackson Rippner, the menacing force on the flight. Brian Cox plays Lisa’s father, whose safety becomes the catalyst for the film’s escalating tension. Together, the cast delivers performances that heighten the film’s suspense without needing complex plot devices or numerous locations.
The movie’s simplicity in setting—a single flight—and its focused storytelling allow the tension to build steadily, creating a claustrophobic atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge. This makes Red Eye an ideal choice for fans of tightly woven thrillers and those interested in seeing a different side of Cillian Murphy’s acting range.
Why Watching Red Eye Now Matters for Fans and Movie Enthusiasts
With Cillian Murphy’s rising profile through critically acclaimed roles like Thomas Shelby in Peaky Blinders and his Oscar-winning lead in Oppenheimer, revisiting Red Eye offers a fresh perspective on his versatility. For viewers waiting for his return to the 28 Days Later franchise or simply wanting to explore his underrated thriller works, Red Eye stands as a compelling option.
The film’s presence on Netflix makes it accessible to a broad audience, and its continued popularity on the platform reflects the timeless appeal of a well-executed suspense thriller. For those seeking intense performances entwined with a suspenseful plot, Red Eye not only entertains but also highlights the dynamic talents of both Murphy and director Wes Craven.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Cillian Murphy a billionaire?
A. By 2025, Cillian Murphy’s estimated net worth is about $20 million. Most of his wealth comes from his successful acting career. He has played roles in many popular films and TV shows and has also appeared in stage productions.
Q. Does Cillian Murphy eat meat?
A. This isn’t the first time Murphy has adjusted his eating habits for acting. In 2017, he shared with Mr Porter that he had been a vegetarian for 15 years. However, he started eating meat again to play Thomas “Tommy” Shelby, a gangster politician, in “Peaky Blinders.”
Q. Is Cillian Murphy a big smoker?
A. Summary: Cillian Murphy, who does not smoke in real life, used 3,000 herbal cigarettes each season as Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders. His deep method acting also had him portray heavy smokers such as Oppenheimer. Now, Murphy wants to avoid smoker roles in the future.
