Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man (2026) Movie Preview: A Thrilling Continuation of the Shelby Saga

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🎬 Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man (2026) – Anticipated Release: Late 2025 or Early 2026
The Peaky Blinders franchise, a cultural phenomenon known for its gritty depiction of Birmingham’s criminal underworld, is set to return with a feature film titled The Immortal Man. Directed by Tom Harper and written by series creator Steven Knight, this Netflix production, in association with BBC Film, promises an explosive chapter in the story of Tommy Shelby and his notorious gang. With Cillian Murphy reprising his iconic role and a stellar cast of new and returning actors, the film is poised to captivate fans of the original series. Below is a detailed preview of Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, covering its plot, cast, production details, and what fans can expect from this cinematic continuation.
Overview of Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man
Following the conclusion of Peaky Blinders’ sixth season in 2022, fans were left eager for more of the Shelby family’s saga. The series, which aired from 2013 to 2022, chronicled the rise and fall of Birmingham crime boss Tommy Shelby (Cillian Murphy) in the turbulent post-World War I era. Known for its stylish visuals, intense drama, and Murphy’s visceral performance, the show became a global hit, spawning a fashion craze and inspiring countless imitations. The Immortal Man, announced in 2024, marks the transition of the Peaky Blinders story from television to the big screen, fulfilling creator Steven Knight’s long-standing vision to conclude the saga with a feature film.
The film, which wrapped production in December 2024, is set during World War II, a significant time jump from the series’ 1930s setting. Described as a “no holds barred” continuation, The Immortal Man promises to deliver the high-stakes drama, moral complexity, and violent flair that defined the series. With a theatrical release confirmed alongside its Netflix debut, the film aims to offer fans a communal viewing experience while introducing new characters and untold stories from the war-torn era.
Why Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man Is Highly Anticipated
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Iconic lead: Cillian Murphy’s return as Tommy Shelby, fresh off his Oscar win for Oppenheimer, ensures a powerhouse performance.
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Explosive narrative: Steven Knight’s script, set during WWII, integrates historical events with the Shelby family’s criminal empire.
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Star-studded cast: Newcomers like Barry Keoghan, Rebecca Ferguson, and Tim Roth join returning favorites, promising fresh dynamics.
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Cinematic scope: The increased budget and theatrical release elevate the series’ gritty aesthetic to new heights.
Plot: A Wartime Epic for the Shelby Clan
While specific plot details for The Immortal Man remain closely guarded, Steven Knight has revealed key elements that set the stage for an ambitious story. The film is set during World War II, likely in the early 1940s, when England faced German bombings and global conflict. This time jump from the series’ 1934 endpoint places Tommy Shelby in a new historical context, navigating a world at war. Knight has teased that the story incorporates “three true, secret, and unknown stories” from the war, weaving historical intrigue into the Peaky Blinders universe.
The series’ sixth season ended with Tommy riding off on a white horse, having dismantled his criminal empire and discovered he was not terminally ill. This resolution left his future open-ended, setting the stage for The Immortal Man to explore his next chapter. Knight has described the film as “full-on Peaky Blinders at war,” suggesting intense conflict, both personal and political, as Tommy confronts the challenges of WWII. The narrative will likely delve into how global war affects the Shelby family’s operations, with Tommy’s wartime experiences shaping his decisions.
The introduction of new characters, including those played by Barry Keoghan, Rebecca Ferguson, and Tim Roth, hints at fresh alliances and rivalries. One theory posits that Keoghan could portray an aged-up Duke Shelby, Tommy’s illegitimate son introduced in Season 6, though his role remains unconfirmed. The return of Ada Shelby (Sophie Rundle) as the family matriarch suggests a focus on the Shelby lineage, with younger characters from Season 6 playing significant roles. Knight has also emphasized that the late Helen McCrory’s character, Polly Gray, will remain a spiritual presence, influencing the story despite her absence.
Narrative Strengths to Expect
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Historical integration: The WWII setting and real-life stories add authenticity and stakes.
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Character evolution: Tommy’s journey post-Season 6 will explore new facets of his complex psyche.
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Family dynamics: The focus on Ada and new-generation characters ensures the Shelby legacy endures.
Cast: A Blend of Familiar Faces and New Talent
The Immortal Man boasts an impressive ensemble, combining Peaky Blinders veterans with high-profile newcomers. The confirmed cast includes:
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Cillian Murphy as Tommy Shelby, the cunning and haunted leader of the Peaky Blinders. Murphy, who also serves as a producer, has expressed enthusiasm for returning to the role, calling it a gift for the fans.
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Sophie Rundle as Ada Shelby, Tommy’s sister, who took on a leadership role in Season 6.
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Stephen Graham as Hayden Stagg, the union leader introduced in Season 6, bringing his intense gravitas.
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Ned Dennehy as Charlie Strong, a loyal Peaky Blinders member.
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Packy Lee as Johnny Dogs, a longtime ally of the Shelbys.
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Ian Peck as Curly, another trusted associate.
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Barry Keoghan, in an undisclosed role, fresh off acclaimed performances in Saltburn and The Banshees of Inisherin.
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Rebecca Ferguson, known for Dune and Mission: Impossible, in a yet-to-be-revealed role.
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Tim Roth, an Oscar nominee for Rob Roy, adding depth to the cast.
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Jay Lycurgo, recognized from Titans, joining as a new character.
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Tom Hardy, reportedly reprising his role as Alfie Solomons, the volatile Camden Town gang leader, though confirmation is pending.
Notably absent is Paul Anderson as Arthur Shelby, Tommy’s volatile brother, possibly due to legal issues following a 2023 drug possession charge. Other Season 6 actors, like Sam Claflin (Oswald Mosley) and Kate Phillips (Linda Shelby), have expressed interest but are not confirmed to return. Knight has hinted that new characters introduced in Season 6 will play significant roles, ensuring a blend of legacy and innovation.
Casting Highlights
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Murphy’s return: His Oscar-winning pedigree elevates expectations for Tommy’s next arc.
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Newcomers’ intrigue: Keoghan, Ferguson, and Roth bring star power and mystery to the story.
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Returning ensemble: Familiar characters maintain continuity while new faces refresh the dynamic.
Production: A Cinematic Leap for the Franchise
The Immortal Man represents a significant step up in production value from the Peaky Blinders series. Directed by Tom Harper, who helmed episodes in the show’s first season, the film benefits from his familiarity with the franchise’s tone. Steven Knight’s script, developed over several years, aims to deliver a conclusive yet open-ended chapter, with Knight teasing potential for further stories.
Filming took place from September 30 to December 13, 2024, primarily in Birmingham’s Digbeth Loc Studios and on location in the city’s historic Digbeth and Small Heath areas, where the real Peaky Blinders operated. The increased budget allows for grander set pieces and enhanced visuals, with Knight promising a “step up” in production quality. The film is produced by Knight, Murphy, Caryn Mandabach, and Guy Heeley, with executive producers including Harper and BBC Film representatives.
Knight has described early cuts as “mind-blowingly good,” suggesting a polished and impactful final product. The film’s theatrical release, a rarity for Netflix projects, underscores its ambition, though the extent of the theatrical window remains unclear. Fans can expect a release in late 2025 or early 2026, with streaming on Netflix following any cinema run.
Production Highlights
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Birmingham authenticity: Filming in historic locations grounds the story in its roots.
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Cinematic ambition: The larger budget enhances visuals and action sequences.
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Theatrical release: A cinema debut offers a communal experience for fans.
Themes and Expectations: Peaky Blinders at War
The Immortal Man is poised to explore themes central to the Peaky Blinders series—family, power, and redemption—within the context of World War II. The wartime setting introduces new moral complexities, as Tommy navigates a conflict that dwarfs his criminal empire. Knight’s emphasis on “Peaky Blinders at war” suggests both literal and metaphorical battles, with Tommy’s wartime experiences likely challenging his identity and legacy.
The film will likely delve into the Shelby family’s evolution, with Ada’s leadership and new characters reflecting the next generation. Polly’s lingering influence ensures the matriarch’s legacy endures, while the introduction of historical “secret stories” adds intrigue. Fans can expect the series’ signature blend of stylish violence, psychological depth, and period authenticity, amplified by a cinematic scope.
Anticipated Themes
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War’s impact: The WWII backdrop tests the Shelbys’ resilience and morality.
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Family legacy: Ada and new characters carry the Shelby name forward.
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Redemption: Tommy’s journey may seek closure or a new beginning.
Target Audience and Why It’s a Must-Watch
The Immortal Man is tailored for:
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Peaky Blinders fans: The return of Tommy Shelby and familiar characters delivers the closure fans crave.
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Cillian Murphy admirers: His acclaimed performance is a major draw post-Oppenheimer.
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Historical crime drama enthusiasts: The WWII setting and real-life stories appeal to genre lovers.
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Thriller seekers: The promise of an “explosive” narrative ensures high-stakes excitement.
If you enjoyed Peaky Blinders or films like The Godfather and Gangs of New York, The Immortal Man will captivate with its blend of crime, history, and drama.
Comparison to the Series and Other Films
Compared to the Peaky Blinders series, The Immortal Man offers a grander scale and a conclusive arc, moving beyond the 1920s-1930s setting to a global conflict. Unlike Boardwalk Empire, which focused on Prohibition-era America, The Immortal Man tackles WWII’s broader stakes, akin to Inglourious Basterds in its historical reimagining. Its cinematic ambition aligns with crime epics like The Irishman, balancing character depth with spectacle.
Potential Reception and Cultural Impact
Early buzz suggests The Immortal Man will be a critical and fan favorite. Knight’s claim that the first edit is “mind-blowingly good” and the star-studded cast raise expectations. The film’s theatrical release could amplify its cultural impact, reviving the Peaky Blinders fashion trend and sparking renewed interest in the series. Posts on X reflect fan excitement, with some speculating about a potential Season 7, though these remain unconfirmed rumors.
Conclusion: A Fitting Chapter for Tommy Shelby
Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man (2026) is set to be a thrilling and cinematic continuation of the Shelby saga, bringing Tommy Shelby back for an explosive wartime epic. With Cillian Murphy leading a stellar cast, Steven Knight’s bold script, and Tom Harper’s direction, the film promises to honor the series’ legacy while pushing it into new territory. Whether in theaters or on Netflix, The Immortal Man is a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike, offering a gripping blend of history, crime, and human drama.
Stay tuned for its release in late 2025 or early 2026, and prepare for a “full-on Peaky Blinders” experience that delivers on its promise of no holds barred.
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