Cillian Murphy in STEVE

Cillian Murphy in STEVE

Cillian Murphy in STEVE

Cillian Murphy’s post-OPPENHEIMER career choices reveal an actor more interested in artistic integrity than commercial appeal. Rather than leveraging his Oscar win for blockbuster deals, Murphy has reunited with director Tim Mielants for STEVE, arriving in theaters this September before hitting Netflix on October 3rd.

Based on Max Porter’s bestseller “Shy,” STEVE follows headteacher Murphy through a pivotal day at a last-chance reform school facing closure. As Steve battles to save his institution while grappling with his own mental health, he encounters Shy, a troubled teenager caught between self-destruction and redemption. The film reunites Murphy with SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE co-star Emily Watson, alongside Tracey Ullman and Jay Lycurgo.

What makes Murphy’s trajectory fascinating is how it defies typical post-Oscar moves. While most actors chase lucrative franchises, Murphy continues selecting complex, psychologically demanding roles. From OPPENHEIMER‘s tortured physicist to SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE‘s conflicted father, and now STEVE‘s dedicated educator, he gravitates toward characters wrestling with profound moral dilemmas.

Murphy’s collaboration with emerging director Mielants and innovative writer Porter demonstrates his commitment to elevating distinctive voices rather than simply starring in established properties. This mature approach leverages his Oscar credibility to champion meaningful projects that might otherwise struggle for recognition.

STEVE represents Murphy’s statement about his artistic priorities in this career phase, where commercial considerations yield to meaningful storytelling and authentic collaboration. His choices suggest an artist building a lasting legacy rather than capitalizing on Hollywood’s fleeting spotlight.

🎬🔥 When Irish rap meets global politics - @kneecap32 isn't backing down!

From Coachella controversy to terror charges, this Irish-language trio has had one hell of a year...and a lot to say about it.

More via link in bio.

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From playing every character in VANYA to breaking hearts in ALL OF US STRANGERS – Andrew Scott is proving there's no role too challenging for Ireland's most versatile talent 🎭

In a new @cultured_mag interview, Scott chats with his KNIVES OUT co-star Josh O'Connor!

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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Fresh off his OPPENHEIMER triumph, Murphy's back with STEVE, a powerful drama about a headteacher fighting to save his reform school while battling his own demons.

We can't wait to see Murphy disappear into another unforgettable role 🔥

More at irishfilmtv.com.

September theaters ➡️ October Netflix

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Cork's own Éanna Hardwicke is about to step into the boots of @officialkeane16 for SAIPAN - and the first trailer has us HOOKED!

From LAKELANDS to THE SIXTH COMMANDMENT, this BAFTA-nominated powerhouse has been building toward this moment.

Watch now at irishfilmtv.com.

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Making Ireland proud on Hollywood's biggest stage 🇮🇪✨

Kerry Condon is breaking barriers as the Irish female lead in F1 - and doing it with her mam's Claddagh ring and that unmistakable Thurles accent intact 💍

Read more via link in bio!

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🎭 From LOVE/HATE to the West End! 

IFTA winner Tom Vaughan-Lawlor is taking on Conor McPherson's haunting masterpiece THE WEIR alongside Brendan Gleeson, Owen McDonnell, and Kate Phillips. 

Dublin's 3Olympia Theatre (Aug 8-Sep 6) ➡️ London's Harold Pinter Theatre (Sep 12-Dec 6)

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎭 The incredibly talented Paul Mescal is starring in the upcoming historical romance, THE HISTORY OF SOUND, hitting theatres Sep 12th! 

This film made BIG waves at Cannes, and early reviews are calling it some of Mescal's best work yet.

More via link in bio!

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🏎️ From Thurles to the Formula 1 fast lane! 

Kerry Condon is earning rave reviews for her gutsy performance in F1 THE MOVIE, proving Irish talent (and accents) belong in the Summer's biggest blockbusters!

F1 THE MOVIE hits theaters Jun 27 🎬

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Liam Neeson, bringing his particular set of skills to comedy! 🤣 

Get ready to see the Irish legend like never before in the new NAKED GUN, hitting theaters August 1st. 

He's nervous, Pamela Anderson's "madly in love" with him, and we're just here for the laughs!

New trailer at irishfilmtv.com.

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🌟 Ruth Negga doesn't just act – she transforms. 

From her Emmy-worthy intensity in PRESUMED INNOCENT to her Golden Globe-nominated brilliance in PASSING, this Irish powerhouse continues to redefine what it means to inhabit a character completely.

Watch IN PROCESSS for Negga's take on craft and the pursuit of creation!

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Irish legend Sharon Horgan of BAD SISTERS fame recently sat down with the incredible Tommy Tiernan on The Tommy Tiernan Show! ✨ 

Horgan opened up about navigating the entertainment industry as a woman and finding that work-life balance.

Watch now at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎬 Domhnall Gleeson brings serious talent to Guy Ritchie's globe-trotting adventure FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH! 

From STAR WARS galaxies to treasure hunting expeditions, this Irish powerhouse continues to prove his incredible range. His mysterious billionaire character keeps you guessing until the very last frame ✨

Now streaming!

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📢 #u2 frontman Bono and Zane Lowe just dropped a conversation that goes WAY beyond your average interview.

We're talking deep dives into the soul of #SONGSOFSURRENDER, artistic vulnerability, and why even U2's most iconic tracks needed a fresh look.

Watch now at irishfilmtv.com.

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Pat O'Connor's masterpiece CAL is back in Irish theatres Jun 13.

Helen Mirren's Cannes-winning performance still hits different! This Northern Irish masterpiece proves that the most powerful love stories are built on impossible foundations.

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎬 Jamie Dornan is serving DOUBLE TROUBLE in Netflix's upcoming thriller THE UNDERTOW! 

From BELFAST to THE TOURIST and now this psychological masterpiece, Dornan continues to prove he's one of Ireland's most versatile talents. One twin, one woman, one terrible secret... and we're already obsessed! Coming 2025 and we simply cannot wait! 🔥

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Irish Film

PEAKY BLINDERS wraps filming

PEAKY BLINDERS wraps filming

PEAKY BLINDERS wraps filming

The curtain has fallen on filming for the highly anticipated PEAKY BLINDERS movie, with creator Steven Knight confirming production wrapped on December 13th. “We’ve got Barry Keoghan, Tim Roth, Rebecca Ferguson, and obviously Cillian Murphy and Stephen Graham,” Knight revealed on The Playlist’s Bingeworthy podcast, adding with palpable excitement, “And I have to say, it is mind-blowingly good.”

The gritty drama that captured audiences with its unflinching portrayal of Birmingham’s criminal underworld in the aftermath of World War I has always had Irish blood running through its veins. At its core stands Cillian Murphy’s Tommy Shelby, the calculating gang leader whose Irish roots inform both his outsider status and his resilience. Murphy, born in Cork, brought an authentic Irish intensity to the role that helped propel him to international stardom during the show’s nearly decade-long run from 2013 to 2022.

Now the Irish connection strengthens with the addition of Dublin-born Barry Keoghan to the cast. The SALTBURN star represents a new generation of Irish talent making waves in Hollywood, following a path blazed by actors like Michael Fassbender and Pierce Brosnan. Both Fassbender and Brosnan share fascinating Irish backgrounds – Fassbender born in Germany but raised in Killarney from age two, while Brosnan hails from Drogheda before finding fame across the Atlantic. Like Murphy, they carried their Irish sensibilities into roles that demanded both ferocity and vulnerability.

While Netflix has only released a single tantalizing image of Keoghan driving a truck toward a brick building, his addition alongside Murphy creates a powerful Irish presence in the film. This Irish thread weaves throughout the PEAKY BLINDERS universe, reflecting Ireland’s complex relationship with Britain and the immigrant experience that shaped Birmingham’s industrial landscape. The fierce loyalty, quick wit, and simmering tension that characterized the original series all carry echoes of Irish storytelling traditions.

Irish Film

Irish talent shines at IFTA 2025

Irish talent shines at IFTAs 2025

Irish talent shines at IFTAs 2025

The 2025 Irish Film and Television Awards transformed Dublin into a constellation of stars on Friday evening, with SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE emerging as the night’s biggest winner. The intimate drama secured both Best Film and Best Actor for Cillian Murphy, who delivered a memorable acceptance speech apologizing to his fellow nominees from hip-hop group Kneecap: “Sorry Kneecap. You had me outnumbered.”

The evening proved particularly triumphant for Saoirse Ronan, who demonstrated her versatility by claiming two major awards. She won Best Actress for her compelling performance in THE OUTRUN, where she portrayed a young woman grappling with alcoholism – a project she created alongside her husband Jack Lowden. “I got to make this film with the love of my life,” Ronan shared emotionally from the stage. She also secured Best Supporting Actress for her role in the World War II drama BLITZ, during which she graciously acknowledged the team from ATONEMENT, the film that launched her Oscar-nominated career.

The ceremony highlighted the growing international appeal of Irish cinema, with Colin Farrell winning Best Lead Actor in a TV Drama for his transformation in THE PENGUIN. The gritty drama SAY NOTHING garnered multiple honors, including Lead Actress in a Drama Series for Lola Petticrew’s powerful portrayal of Dolours Price. The series also earned Anthony Boyle the Rising Star award for his depiction of Brendan Hughes, while Tom Vaughan-Lawlor and Hazel Doupe secured supporting actor awards.

In a particularly poignant moment, director Rich Peppiatt accepted his Best Director award for KNEECAP with news that carried special weight: he had become an Irish citizen just hours before the ceremony. Holding up an Irish flag badge, he declared, “I became an Irish citizen earlier today, only about two hours ago, just in time.” The film itself, predominantly in Irish, represents a bold celebration of language and culture, with its creators insisting on authenticity in their storytelling.

BAD SISTERS continued its successful run with Sharon Horgan taking home the award for Script Writing. Horgan tantalized fans with hints about a potential third season, expressing interest in casting Sebastian Stan or Andrew Scott as the show’s next antagonist. The series’ acclaim underscores the growing global appetite for Irish storytelling.

Industry veteran Colm Meaney received the Lifetime Achievement Award, approaching the honor with characteristic humor: “It means a thing about yay size, very heavy. It’s a wonderful award, it’s very special, and to get it from my home town and from my peers too.”

The evening served as a powerful reminder of Ireland’s flourishing film industry, with Andrew Scott capturing the sentiment perfectly: “We have incredible crews here, and the standard of our work is going from strength to strength. I just hope that we continue making films that are authentically Irish and what it means to be Irish. There is a real international audience for not just the actors who are doing well at the moment, but all types of filmmakers. It’s a really incredibly exciting time.”

Indeed, as the credits rolled on another spectacular IFTA ceremony, it was clear that Irish cinema isn’t just finding its voice – it’s commanding the global stage with stories that resonate far beyond its shores.

Murphy to present at Oscars 2025

Cillian Murphy: Oscar 2025 presenter

Cillian Murphy: Oscar 2025 presenter

In a striking reversal from Ireland’s remarkable success at last year’s Academy Awards, the 97th Oscar ceremony will feature just one familiar Irish face: Cillian Murphy, who will return not as a nominee but as a presenter. The Cork native, fresh from his triumphant Best Actor win for his mesmerizing portrayal in Christopher Nolan’s OPPENHEIMER, will join fellow 2024 Oscar winners on stage to pass the torch to this year’s recipients.

The cinematic landscape has shifted dramatically for Irish talent in 2025, with no nominations despite several promising contenders. Perhaps most notably, Irish rap sensation Kneecap saw their hopes dashed after being longlisted in the Best International Film category. However, Ireland’s presence in Hollywood continues through Tailored Films, whose production THE APPRENTICE has secured two significant nominations: Sebastian Stan for Leading Actor and Jeremy Strong for Supporting Actor in their Donald Trump biopic.

Murphy’s presenting duties will place him alongside an illustrious group of fellow 2024 winners, including Emma Stone (a two-time Oscar winner who previously claimed victory for LA LA LAND), Da’Vine Joy Randolph (who captured hearts in THE HOLDOVERS), and Robert Downey Jr. (celebrated for his turn as Lewis Strauss in OPPENHEIMER). While their specific presenting duties remain under wraps, their presence promises to add star power to the ceremony, which will be hosted by Conan O’Brien at the iconic Dolby Theatre on March 2, 2025.

This year’s Best Actor race presents an intriguing lineup, featuring Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan in A COMPLETE UNKNOWN, Adrien Brody in THE BRUTALIST, Colman Domingo in SINGSING, Ralph Fiennes in CONCLAVE, and Sebastian Stan in THE APPRENTICE. Though Murphy won’t be competing for another statue this year, his artistic momentum hasn’t slowed. His latest film, SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE, released in 2024, showcases his continuing commitment to powerful storytelling. Set in 1985, the film adapts Claire Keegan’s novel, with Murphy portraying Bill Furlong, a coal merchant who uncovers disturbing truths about Ireland’s Magdalene Institutions in the town of New Ross.

The absence of Irish nominees this year stands in stark contrast to the recent golden era of Irish cinema, which saw remarkable success with films like OPPENHEIMER and THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN. Yet, as Murphy’s continued presence at the ceremony suggests, Irish influence in global cinema remains resilient, even if this year’s nominations don’t reflect the wealth of talent emerging from the Emerald Isle.

PEAKY BLINDERS wraps filming

PEAKY BLINDERS wraps filming

PEAKY BLINDERS wraps filming

The highly anticipated PEAKY BLINDERS film has completed filming, with Cillian Murphy returning as Tommy Shelby. The movie, titled THE IMMORTAL MAN, brings together both familiar faces and new talent under the direction of Tom Harper, who previously directed episodes in the show’s first season.

The production brings together Cillian Murphy reprising his role as Tommy Shelby, Barry Keoghan joining in an undisclosed role, and Rebecca Ferguson as part of the confirmed cast. Tom Harper takes the helm as director, while series creator Steven Knight pens the screenplay.

The project has strong ties to the original series, with Murphy, Knight, Caryn Mandabach, and Guy Heeley serving as co-producers. Murphy, fresh off his Oscar win, expressed enthusiasm about returning to the role, stating, It seems like Tommy Shelby wasn’t finished with me… This is one for the fans.

Netflix announced the completion of filming by sharing a behind-the-scenes photo featuring Cillian Murphy and Barry Keoghan, wishing the cast and crew a happy festive break.

SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE now streaming

Watch SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE from home

Watch SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE from home

Cillian Murphy stars in the poignant Irish drama SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE, now available for digital rental and purchase in the UK and US. Based on Claire Keegan’s novel, the film follows Bill Furlong, a devoted father who uncovers a disturbing secret at a local convent, forcing him to confront his past and the Catholic Church’s systemic silence.

Directed by Tim Mielants and adapted by Enda Walsh, the movie features an impressive ensemble cast including Eileen Walsh, Michelle Fairley, Emily Watson, Clare Dunne, and Helen Behan.

Digital Availability:

  • UK: Already available on Prime Video, iTunes, and other digital retailers
  • US: Releasing tonight (December 16) on Prime Video, iTunes, and additional platforms

Physical Release:

  • DVD and Blu-ray pre-orders are available in the UK
  • Lionsgate has not yet confirmed a physical release date

Murphy recently discussed the film’s intentionally ambiguous ending, praising its narrative approach. “The genius of the book is how it unspools,” he explained. “It leaves room for multiple interpretations—potentially optimistic or pessimistic—while representing the gradual loosening of the church’s historical grip.”

Fans can catch SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE digitally now, ahead of Murphy’s return to PEAKY BLINDERS in the upcoming movie.

28 YEARS LATER trailer

Murphy in 28 YEARS LATER trailer

Murphy in 28 YEARS LATER trailer

The long-awaited zombie apocalypse sequel 28 YEARS LATER has finally unveiled its first trailer, with an intriguing connection to Cillian Murphy’s original character from 28 DAYS LATER. While Murphy serves as an executive producer, his role appears to be primarily behind the scenes, with a potential cameo as a zombie version of his character Jim.

The trailer has sparked excitement among fans by seemingly featuring a zombified Jim, the bike courier Murphy portrayed in the 2002 original film. Despite Murphy’s Oscar-winning status and lack of prominent billing on promotional materials, his potential zombie appearance has become a focal point of speculation.

The film, directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland, is set nearly three decades after the initial outbreak of the “Rage Virus”. The cast includes Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Ralph Fiennes, who are shown battling zombies in the trailer’s first glimpse.

Though Murphy did not appear in the 2007 sequel 28 WEEKS LATER, his involvement as an executive producer suggests a continued connection to the franchise. His potential zombie cameo adds an unexpected layer of intrigue to the upcoming film, which is poised to continue the story of a world devastated by a biological weapons laboratory disaster.

28 YEARS LATER promises to be a significant addition to the zombie genre, with Murphy’s subtle involvement adding an extra layer of anticipation for fans of the original film.

Cillian Murphy as Voldemort?

Cillian Murphy as Voldemort?

Cillian Murphy as Voldemort?

Amid rumors of a potential HARRY POTTER TV adaptation, Cillian Murphy finds himself at the center of speculation about playing Voldemort – while simultaneously juggling an impressive lineup of high-profile projects.

Ralph Fiennes, the original Voldemort in the HARRY POTTER film series, has enthusiastically endorsed Murphy for the role. “Cillian is a fantastic actor,” Fiennes told Watch What Happens Live, calling the potential casting “a wonderful suggestion.”

Murphy’s packed schedule includes an upcoming zombie sequel, 28 YEARS LATER, Danny Boyle’s return to his iconic zombie franchise. The film, scheduled for release on June 20, 2025, will also feature Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Jodie Comer, reuniting Murphy with Fiennes.

He’s also preparing for the PEAKY BLINDERS film, continuing his journey as Thomas Shelby in the acclaimed crime series that made him a household name. While negotiations are still early for the potential HARRY POTTER villain role, Murphy’s experience playing antagonists – including Scarecrow in the BATMAN films and a terrorist in RED EYE – makes him an intriguing potential choice for Voldemort.

The proposed HBO series is expected to be a fresh adaptation of the beloved books, with no plans to include the original film’s cast members like Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, or Rupert Grint.

With his versatility and proven track record of compelling performances, Murphy continues to be one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actors, seamlessly moving between intense dramatic roles and potential franchise entries.

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