The highly anticipated Peaky Blinders film, The Immortal Man, is set to make waves in the cinematic world with a theatrical release in late 2025 before it lands on Netflix. This decision marks a significant departure from the streaming-first approach that has become commonplace for many modern productions, emphasizing the enduring allure of the big-screen experience. With Cillian Murphy reprising his iconic role as Tommy Shelby, alongside a stellar cast including Barry Keoghan, Rebecca Ferguson, and Tim Roth, the film promises to deliver a gripping conclusion to the Shelby family saga. Creator Steven Knight has expressed his desire for fans to experience the movie in theaters, highlighting the power of communal viewing and word-of-mouth buzz that has long fueled the Peaky Blinders phenomenon. This article delves into everything you need to know about The Immortal Man, from its theatrical release strategy to its cast, plot, and the significance of its cinema-first approach. For the full story, check the comments section for additional details.

The Return of Tommy Shelby

Peaky Blinders, the acclaimed BBC series that aired from 2013 to 2022, captivated audiences with its gritty portrayal of the Shelby family, a Birmingham-based gang known for sewing razor blades into their caps. At the heart of the series is Tommy Shelby, played with magnetic intensity by Cillian Murphy. Over six seasons, viewers followed Tommy’s rise from a street gangster to a cunning political figure, navigating the treacherous landscape of post-World War I Britain. The series’ blend of historical drama, crime thriller, and character-driven storytelling earned it a devoted global fanbase.

The Immortal Man marks the first feature-length chapter in the Peaky Blinders universe, set during World War II. Directed by Tom Harper, who helmed episodes of the series’ first season, and written by Steven Knight, the film promises to bring closure to Tommy Shelby’s story while opening new avenues for the franchise. Knight has described the movie as “a fitting end to the first chapter,” suggesting that while it concludes one phase of the Shelby saga, there is potential for more stories to come.

Cillian Murphy’s return as Tommy Shelby is a major draw for fans. Fresh off his Academy Award-winning performance in Oppenheimer (2023), Murphy brings unparalleled gravitas to the role. In interviews, Knight has praised Murphy’s professionalism, noting that he “sets the standards” for the cast by arriving prepared and punctual, ensuring a disciplined and focused production. Murphy is also a producer on the film, further cementing his investment in the project’s success.

A Star-Studded Cast

One of the most exciting aspects of The Immortal Man is its ensemble cast, which Knight has called “the best British acting talent all in one place.” Alongside Murphy, the film features a roster of acclaimed actors, including:

Barry Keoghan, known for his roles in The Banshees of Inisherin and Saltburn, brings his signature intensity to an undisclosed role.

Rebecca Ferguson, star of Dune and Mission: Impossible, adds a layer of intrigue to the film.

Tim Roth, a veteran of films like Pulp Fiction and Reservoir Dogs, joins the cast in a role that promises to showcase his versatility.

Returning Peaky Blinders actors, including Stephen Graham, Sophie Rundle, Ned Dennehy, Ian Peck, Packy Lee, and newcomer Jay Lycurgo, round out the ensemble, ensuring continuity with the series while introducing fresh faces.

This powerhouse cast is expected to deliver the nuanced performances that have become a hallmark of Peaky Blinders. The combination of established stars and series veterans creates a dynamic mix that will likely elevate the film’s emotional and dramatic impact.

A Cinematic-First Approach

Unlike many Netflix films that prioritize streaming releases, The Immortal Man will premiere in theaters in late 2025 before arriving on the platform. This decision reflects a growing trend among filmmakers and studios to re-emphasize the theatrical experience, particularly for projects with strong cinematic potential. Steven Knight has been vocal about his desire for fans to see the film on the big screen, citing the power of word-of-mouth and the communal energy of theatergoing. “The series’ success was built on word-of-mouth,” Knight said in an interview with The Playlist, “and we want that same energy for the movie.”

The choice to prioritize theaters is significant for several reasons. First, it underscores the film’s ambition to deliver a visually and emotionally immersive experience. With an increased budget compared to the television series, The Immortal Man promises a more expansive portrayal of Birmingham’s ravaged streets, brought to life with unprecedented detail. The larger canvas of the big screen will allow for sweeping cinematography, intricate set design, and a heightened sense of scale, making it a true cinematic event.

Second, the theatrical release positions The Immortal Man as part of an exclusive club of Netflix films granted big-screen debuts. While Netflix has traditionally favored streaming, films like The Irishman and Roma have received limited theatrical runs, often to qualify for awards or build buzz. However, The Immortal Man’s theatrical window is expected to be relatively short, likely lasting two weeks, based on Netflix’s past practices. It remains unclear whether the release will be limited to the U.K. or extend to North America, but the decision to prioritize cinemas suggests confidence in the film’s ability to draw audiences.

This cinema-first approach also aligns with broader industry trends. Recent successes like Spider-Man: No Way Home, which grossed over $1 billion at the box office, have demonstrated that audiences still crave the theatrical experience for major releases. Directors like Christopher Nolan, Martin Scorsese, and Quentin Tarantino have been vocal advocates for theaters, arguing that the big screen offers an unparalleled way to engage with storytelling. The Immortal Man joins this movement, promising a spectacle that demands to be seen in a cinema.

The Plot and Setting

While specific plot details for The Immortal Man remain closely guarded, Steven Knight has revealed that the film is set during World War II, a period of immense upheaval that provides a rich backdrop for Tommy Shelby’s story. The series’ final season saw Tommy grappling with personal and political challenges, including his battle with tuberculosis and his entanglement with fascist forces. The film is expected to pick up where the series left off, exploring Tommy’s role in a world at war and his efforts to secure his family’s legacy.

Knight has hinted that the film will address Tommy’s complex journey, balancing high-stakes drama with the character-driven storytelling that defined the series. The World War II setting opens the door for new conflicts, whether involving espionage, resistance movements, or the Shelbys’ criminal empire. The film’s title, The Immortal Man, suggests themes of legacy, survival, and the enduring mythos of Tommy Shelby, who has repeatedly defied death and adversity.

The increased budget and cinematic scale will allow for a more immersive portrayal of the era. Knight has emphasized the film’s ability to bring Birmingham’s war-torn streets to life, with detailed production design and visual effects that enhance the gritty realism of the Peaky Blinders universe. Fans can expect intense action sequences, intricate political maneuvering, and the emotional depth that has made Tommy Shelby a cultural icon.

Production and Post-Production

Filming for The Immortal Man wrapped on December 19, 2024, after shooting in locations including Birmingham and Bradford, U.K. The production utilized historic sites, such as Bradford’s Little Germany, to recreate the period setting with authenticity. As of August 2025, the film is in post-production, with editing, visual effects, and soundtrack work underway. Early test screenings have taken place, with Knight describing the initial cuts as “mind-blowingly good.” However, the film is still without completed CGI, effects, or a final soundtrack, suggesting that additional time is needed to polish the final product.

Post-production is expected to take several months, with estimates ranging from December 2025 to March or April 2026 for the theatrical release. The complexity of the film’s visual effects and score, combined with Cillian Murphy’s busy schedule—filming projects like 28 Years Later and a Damien Chazelle film—may influence the final release date. Murphy’s role as a producer ensures his involvement in shaping the film’s final form, adding to the anticipation for a polished and impactful cinematic experience.

The Significance of the Theatrical Release

The decision to release The Immortal Man in theaters before streaming reflects a broader debate about the future of cinema. The rise of streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime has transformed how audiences consume films, with many opting for the convenience of home viewing. However, the theatrical experience remains unmatched for its immersive visuals, booming sound, and shared audience energy. Posts on X and Reddit highlight fans’ excitement for seeing Peaky Blinders on the big screen, with many citing the series’ cinematic visuals as a perfect fit for theaters.

The theatrical release also serves a strategic purpose. By prioritizing cinemas, Netflix aims to generate buzz and early reviews, which can boost the film’s awards potential and streaming performance. The Peaky Blinders fanbase, known for its passionate engagement on platforms like Reddit, is likely to drive word-of-mouth promotion, further amplifying the film’s reach. However, the short theatrical window may limit its box office potential, as some fans may wait for the Netflix release.

The cinema-first approach also taps into the nostalgia and prestige of theatrical releases. For a franchise as culturally significant as Peaky Blinders, the big screen offers a chance to elevate the story to event status, much like Spider-Man: No Way Home or Avatar: The Way of Water. The film’s release strategy aligns with efforts by filmmakers like Tom Cruise and Christopher Nolan to preserve the theatrical experience, ensuring that The Immortal Man feels like a must-see event.

Challenges and Expectations

While the theatrical release is exciting, it comes with challenges. The Peaky Blinders fanbase, though dedicated, is considered niche, and the film’s low-to-mid-budget status may limit its theatrical rollout. Some speculate that the release may be confined to the U.K., with Birmingham as a focal point, potentially excluding North American audiences. Additionally, the film’s success will depend on balancing the expectations of longtime fans with the need to attract new viewers.

The mixed reception to the series’ later seasons, particularly criticism of pacing and plot complexity, raises the stakes for The Immortal Man to deliver a satisfying conclusion. Knight’s decision to set the film during World War II introduces new narrative risks, as the shift in time period and tone must resonate with audiences. However, the involvement of a seasoned director like Tom Harper and a talented cast bodes well for the film’s quality.

Fans on Reddit and X are buzzing with anticipation, with many expressing excitement over early test screenings and the promise of a “mind-blowing” experience. The film’s ability to capture the gritty, stylish essence of Peaky Blinders while embracing the cinematic scale will be key to its success.

Conclusion

The Immortal Man represents a bold new chapter for Peaky Blinders, bringing Tommy Shelby’s story to the big screen with a theatrical release that prioritizes the cinematic experience. With Cillian Murphy leading a stellar cast, a World War II setting, and Steven Knight’s vision, the film promises to deliver a thrilling conclusion to the Shelby saga while paving the way for future stories. The decision to premiere in theaters before streaming underscores the enduring power of cinema, offering fans a chance to experience the Peaky Blinders universe in a new and immersive way. As the film nears its late 2025 release, anticipation is building for what could be one of the year’s most unforgettable cinematic events. For more details, check the comments section for additional insights and updates.