On Monday night at Symphony Hall in Birmingham, the highly anticipated premiere of Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man brought fans and cast members together ahead of its upcoming Netflix release on March 20. Cillian Murphy, reprising his iconic role as Thomas Shelby, led the event that marked the return of the beloved crime saga, attracting widespread attention.
The film picks up the story four years after the television series finale, with Tommy Shelby’s world unraveling during the backdrop of World War II. The movie delves into his troubled return to Birmingham after a self-imposed exile, signaling a dramatic new chapter for the Shelby family and gang.
Stars Gather at Birmingham Premiere to Celebrate Return
The premiere radiated star power as Rebecca Ferguson, who joins the cast as Kaulo—a powerful medium and love interest to Tommy—made a striking appearance in a shimmering gold gown paired with silver platform heels. At 42, Ferguson’s arrival generated excitement as her character promises to add a mysterious dimension to the Shelby narrative.
Meanwhile, Cillian Murphy, 49, showcased his distinctive style in a brown satin shirt, high-waisted trousers, and a long coat, embodying Tommy’s classic sharpness. Although some familiar faces such as Stephen Graham, Sophie Rundell (who plays Tommy’s sister Ada), and Barry Keoghan were notably missing from the red carpet, others like Ian Peck (Curly) and Tim Roth, who portrays Beckett—a British Fascist sympathiser—were present to support the film’s debut.
Local personalities also joined the event, including Birmingham-born footballer Karen Carney accompanied by her Strictly partner Carlos Gu. Other guests included musicians and cast members like Jim Brown, Matt Doyle, Earl Falconer, Matt Campbell, and Robin Campbell from UB40, as well as Carlos O’Connell and Tom Coll from Fontaines D.C.
New Characters and Plot Details Highlight Film’s Intense Narrative
The story unfolds with Tommy Shelby living in isolation, haunted by his past deeds, as indicated by a voiceover in the newly released trailer:
“You’ll live in a house haunted with ghosts, of people who died because of you.”
His interactions with Kaulo introduce a layer of supernatural intrigue and potential romance to the storyline.
Tommy’s return to Birmingham reveals the fractured state of the Peaky Blinders gang, now led by his gypsy son, Erasmus “Duke” Shelby, portrayed by Barry Keoghan. Duke’s controversial allegiance is explored as he faces pressure to commit treason during the war, signaling internal conflicts that threaten to escalate.
Tommy is confronted by his sister Ada, who challenges him on abandoning his family and legacy, while new gang members and uncertain allies complicate his quest for control. Isaiah Jesus, the young gang member and son of Tommy’s lieutenant Jeremiah Jesus, reminds others of Tommy’s enduring influence despite his absence.
Tommy’s history with violence and ambition resurfaces as scenes depict clashes with locals and strategic moves driven by wartime tension. In a powerful moment, Tommy declares:
“Once, I nearly got f**king everything… but nearly doesn’t count,”
underscoring the high stakes involved.
Anticipation Builds as Fans Await the Film’s Release and Future Projects
Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man has been in development since creator Steven Knight first hinted at a film in 2021, with the project confirmed last year. The movie will be available in select cinemas from March 6, 2026, ahead of its wider release on Netflix on March 20.
The film’s release represents a new phase for the franchise, which spanned six series and 36 episodes before transitioning to the big screen. In addition to the film, a spin-off series is also in preparation, promising to expand the Peaky Blinders universe further.
The premiere signals the enduring popularity of the show and its central character, Thomas Shelby, portrayed by Murphy since the show’s debut in 2013. Fans eager to see how Tommy confronts his “most destructive reckoning yet” will find the film’s intense storyline and complex new characters deliver a gripping continuation.
Memorable Moments and Highlights from the Premiere Night
Beyond the star-studded appearances, the event featured a gathering of diverse attendees who contributed to the evening’s vibrant atmosphere. Ellie Simmonds dazzled in a fitted red dress, while Jennifer Ball of Girl In The Year Above showcased her tattoos. Edith Bowman wore a crushed velvet suit accented by a large white flower corsage, highlighting the stylish ambiance of the night.
Harry Kirton and Niamh Charles attracted attention with their lively interactions on the red carpet, while Packy Lee, known for his recurring role as Johnny Dogs, arrived accompanied by family. Musical icons like Gela Nash-Taylor and John Taylor added to the eclectic mix of personalities celebrating the film’s launch.
The Film’s Themes and Future Implications for the Peaky Blinders Storyline
The returning narrative confronts themes of legacy, identity, and loyalty as Tommy Shelby must decide whether to maintain his family’s criminal empire or destroy it amid national turmoil. His relationship with his son and his internal battles set the stage for dramatic conflict.
Barry Keoghan’s character, implicated in potential treason, explores the darker edges of the gang’s influence during the war. Meanwhile, the inclusion of characters like Beckett, a fascist sympathiser played by Tim Roth, underscores the political tension shaping the story’s environment.
This new chapter reinforces the gritty and tense atmosphere that fans of the series have come to expect, while introducing supernatural and emotional challenges that test the resilience of the Peaky Blinders clan.
Official Release Details and Viewing Options
The film will debut in select cinemas starting March 6, 2026, before becoming available to the public for streaming on Netflix from March 20. This staggered release allows fans to experience the movie on the big screen and later from home, expanding access to a global audience.
With its intense narrative, stellar cast led by Cillian Murphy, and the inclusion of powerful new characters such as Kaulo, Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man is poised to reignite interest in the franchise and set the foundation for upcoming spin-offs and further explorations within this dark, compelling world.
“You’ll live in a house haunted with ghosts, of people who died because of you.”
– Voiceover from film trailer
“You abandoned your kingdom, and you abandoned your son.”
– Kaulo to Tommy Shelby
“I can’t help him, because I’m not that man anymore.”
– Tommy Shelby
“The world don’t give a f**k about me, and I don’t give a f**k about the world.”
– Barry Keoghan’s character
“He thought he’d decided it wasn’t his war to fight, but it is now.”
– Tommy Shelby responding to Hayden Stagg
“Once, I nearly got f**king everything… but nearly doesn’t count.”
– Tommy Shelby
“By order of the Peaky Blinders.”
– Film tagline
