Netflix has unveiled the official trailer for its upcoming film Steve, starring Cillian Murphy as a headteacher overseeing a school for young men facing social and behavioral challenges. The trailer’s dynamic editing reflects the tense and demanding atmosphere of the story, marking Murphy’s return to screen work after his acclaimed role in Oppenheimer. This project is Murphy’s second film since his Best Actor win for portraying J. Robert Oppenheimer.
Steve adapts Max Porter’s novella Shy, with Porter also scripting the film to maintain a close connection to the source material. Unlike the novella’s perspective from a student’s point of view, the film centers on the teacher’s experience. The trailer emphasizes this shift through innovative cinematography that captures the chaotic school setting and Murphy’s restrained yet compelling portrayal of a teacher grappling with pressure while trying to support his students.
The film is scheduled to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September, with a limited theatrical release on September 19. Netflix will then make it available for streaming on October 3. This release strategy follows the platform’s pattern of acquiring prominent festival titles, such as the recent Sundance premiere of Train Dreams, slated for a November Netflix debut.
Director Tim Mielants Rejoins Cillian Murphy for Steve
Steve is directed by Tim Mielants, marking the second partnership between the actor and filmmaker after the 2024 historical drama Small Things Like These. That film, which Murphy also produced, tells the story of Bill Furlong, a coal merchant confronting dark secrets in his Irish town, under the influence of the Catholic Church. Murphy’s nuanced performance was a highlight, showing his deep connection with Mielants’ directing style.
This new collaboration appears to explore a different kind of intensity, as the trailer hints at emotional depth and tension distinct from their previous quieter drama. Murphy’s choice to work with Mielants again signals his interest in complex characters and challenging roles as he continues to pick carefully after Oppenheimer.
In addition to Steve, Murphy will reprise his role as Jim in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple early next year, revisiting a character from over two decades ago. He is also set to return as Thomas Shelby in The Immortal Man, the upcoming feature film continuation of the TV series Peaky Blinders.
Key Cast Members Bring the School Story to Life
The cast includes Cillian Murphy as Steve, alongside Jay Lycurgo portraying Shy, reflecting the student-centered roots of the story. Supporting performances feature Tracey Ullman and Little Simz, rounding out a group that promises varied perspectives on the intense environment the film depicts.
Anticipated Premiere and Its Significance
The film’s debut at the Toronto International Film Festival will be an important moment for both Murphy and Mielants, showcasing their latest work on a significant international stage. Netflix’s involvement ensures broad accessibility following a brief theatrical window, continuing the platform’s investment in festival-driven cinema. Steve stands as a focused character study exploring education, hardship, and resilience, with potential to resonate with audiences looking for thoughtful drama.
