Peaky Blinders Film Premiere Lights Up Birmingham with Stars and Sequel News
The world premiere of Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man transformed Birmingham into a cinematic spectacle, with Cillian Murphy leading a host of stars on the red carpet. The much-anticipated feature film sees Murphy reprise his iconic role as Tommy Shelby, in a story set in 1940s Birmingham, written by creator Steven Knight and directed by Tom Harper.
Steven Knight Announces New Series and Praises Birmingham Filming
At the premiere event in Birmingham, Steven Knight revealed exciting news for fans, confirming that a brilliant follow-up series to the film is set to begin shooting imminently. Knight expressed immense satisfaction with filming in his home city, stating, “I sort of insisted that this one we do here.” He highlighted the production team's astonishment at the locations and warm welcome, calling it a “very, very happy experience.”
Knight described the new series as set after the war, teasing its brilliance while keeping details under wraps due to confidentiality. He also emphasized Birmingham's role in the film, noting, “Birmingham is one of the stars of the film,” and shared that early reactions have been emotional, with many viewers ending in tears, which aligns with the filmmakers' intentions.
Cillian Murphy Reflects on Tommy Shelby and Birmingham Experience
Cillian Murphy, speaking at the launch amid props in Centenary Square, reflected on the complexity of his character's development from the First World War to the 1940s. He admitted, “Oh my God, I don’t know if I can give you that in a soundbite,” urging fans to watch the extensive series. Murphy expressed pride in the work, show, and fans, and praised filming in Birmingham, saying, “Loved it, it was amazing.”
Murphy also commented on the film's casting, noting, “I think if you write great parts, you get great actors,” a sentiment echoed by the star-studded premiere attendance.
Plot Details and Co-Stars Share Insights
The Immortal Man delves into a Nazi plot involving Duke Shelby, played by Barry Keoghan, and a new generation of Peaky Blinders, threatening the family's future during World War II. Co-stars Rebecca Ferguson and Tim Roth added to the premiere buzz, with Ferguson describing the set as “incredible” and likening it to “sitting in a pub with some mates.” She emphasized the safe environment allowed for creative exploration.
Tim Roth, who plays Beckett, shared that he chose not to watch previous series to approach his role fresh, a decision that amused Murphy. Roth recounted, “I was a bit nervous about telling him to be honest, but he laughed, which is typical Cillian.”
Director Tom Harper on Filming in Birmingham's Historic Streets
Director Tom Harper praised the authenticity of filming in Birmingham, particularly in areas like Digbeth and Small Heath, where the Peaky Blinders myth originated. He explained, “Sometimes, if you just close your eyes for a minute you can almost slip back in time,” hoping this atmosphere translates to the audience. The film is set to debut in select cinemas this Friday before streaming on Netflix from 20 March.
The premiere also featured appearances by other notable figures, including Aston Villa stars Jadon Sancho and Ezri Konsa, and actor Ned Dennehy, adding to the event's glamour. Knight's earlier unveiling of a West Midlands Metro tram named in his honor underscored the local pride surrounding the production.
