Peaky Blinders Review: Birmingham Gangsters in Sharp Suits
8.5/10 — Peaky Blinders (2013)
Pros
- Cillian Murphy's performance
- Stylish visuals and soundtrack
- Superb supporting cast
Cons
- Far-fetched later plots
After the First World War, Tommy Shelby, played by Cillian Murphy, leads a Birmingham criminal gang, the Peaky Blinders, and aims to rise through legitimate and illegitimate means. It ran for six series.
What works
Murphy is magnetic, and the supporting cast, including Helen McCrory and Tom Hardy, is superb. The style, with modern rock soundtracks and dramatic cinematography, gives it an unusual swagger.
Where it falters
The plots become increasingly outlandish in later series, and the style can overwhelm the substance.
Verdict
Stylish, gripping and powered by Murphy’s performance.
