After years of anticipation, Netflix has confirmed that the story of Tommy Shelby will continue on the big screen with the upcoming film,
“The Immortal Man: A Peaky Blinders Film,”
scheduled to premiere in 2026. This marks Cillian Murphy’s return to his iconic role as the troubled antihero, continuing the saga fans have eagerly awaited since the television series concluded four years ago.
The Film’s Focus and Creative Team Behind the Project
Set against the backdrop of World War II, the film promises a gripping new chapter where Tommy Shelby faces the turmoil of a world at war—a fitting extension for a character who thrives in chaos. Director Tom Harper helms the project, returning to the Peaky Blinders universe after directing episodes of the original series. Steven Knight, the series creator and writer, has penned the screenplay, ensuring the story honors the show’s legacy while venturing into new cinematic territory. The cast includes familiar faces such as Barry Keoghan, Tim Roth, Jay Lycurgo, Ned Dennehy, Sophie Rundle, Rebecca Ferguson, and Stephen Graham.
Sam Claflin’s Absence from the New Film
Despite the star-studded cast, one notable absence is Sam Claflin, who portrayed Oswald Mosley, the British fascist leader and Tommy Shelby’s fierce adversary. Claflin has confirmed that he will not be reprising his role, marking a significant change given the character’s importance in the series’ later seasons. This omission leaves fans curious about how the film will address the political and personal conflicts Mosley represented.
Cillian Murphy Reflects on Returning to Tommy Shelby
Murphy has spoken openly about the significance of resuming his role after such a long period. Reflecting on his connection to the character, he shared,
I did work out that I’ve been playing the character for a quarter of my life, which is kind of mad. Because we got a really good script, and I have a sense of duty to the fans because, in many ways, they made the show the success that it is. It’s a proper bookend to the whole 36 hours of television.
This statement highlights that “The Immortal Man” is intended as a definitive conclusion to Tommy Shelby’s story, providing closure to a character who has defined much of Murphy’s career.
Cillian Murphy’s Expanding Career Beyond Peaky Blinders
Although Murphy remains best known for his portrayal of Tommy Shelby, his career has soared well beyond Birmingham’s dark alleys. His collaboration with director Christopher Nolan has been especially notable, culminating in the critically acclaimed 2023 film “Oppenheimer,” which earned Murphy his first Academy Award while Nolan won Best Director. Their partnership began nearly two decades ago with “Batman Begins” and has spanned six films.
Upcoming Christopher Nolan Project Without Murphy
Despite their long history working together, Murphy will not appear in Nolan’s next major project, an adaptation of Homer’s “The Odyssey.” When asked about this during an interview at Variety’s Toronto Film Festival studio while promoting his recent film “Steve,” Murphy responded with good humor,
Is there a trailer? I have ROMO: ‘Relief of missing out,’
No, I can’t wait to see it. If any director in the world could tackle ‘The Odyssey,’ it’s going to be Christopher Nolan. I am so excited to see it. He is one in a million. He’s been a huge part of my life as an actor. I can’t wait to see what he does with it.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of the New Peaky Blinders Film
“The Immortal Man” is poised to extend the Peaky Blinders legacy by bringing Tommy Shelby’s story to a wider audience on the big screen, deepening the narrative beyond the television series. With its World War II setting and a dedicated creative team, the film promises a fresh yet faithful addition to the Shelby saga. Fans can expect a richly detailed continuation that honors the past while exploring new dramatic territory, even as the absence of key characters like Oswald Mosley hints at changes in the story’s dynamics.
Murphy’s return underscores both his commitment to the character and the enduring popularity of the Peaky Blinders universe. As the release approaches, anticipation builds for how this new chapter will conclude one of television’s most compelling antiheroes’ journeys.
