About Peaky Blinders

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• About
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Awards
• Quotes
• Music, Soundtrack

About

Peaky Blinders is a British television crime drama series set in Birmingham, England after World War I. The show, which premiered in 2013, follows the ruthless Shelby crime family, known as the Peaky Blinders, as they operate their illegal activities and navigate the complex world of post-war politics.

The series is known for its dark and gritty atmosphere, compelling storytelling, and memorable characters. It explores themes of family, loyalty, power, and the consequences of violence and ambition. With its visually stunning production design, excellent writing, and stellar performances, Peaky Blinders has garnered a large and dedicated fan base.

The show has received critical acclaim for its engaging plotlines, historical accuracy, and its portrayal of characters who are both brutal and vulnerable. Peaky Blinders has been praised for its strong performances, particularly by Cillian Murphy in the lead role of Thomas Shelby, the enigmatic and charismatic leader of the gang.

Making / Production

Peaky Blinders is created and written by Steven Knight and produced by Caryn Mandabach Productions and Tiger Aspect Productions. The series is primarily filmed in various locations in Birmingham, England to capture the authentic atmosphere of the period setting. The production team meticulously recreates the 1920s era through detailed set designs, costumes, and props.

The show's distinctive visual style, characterized by its dark cinematography and stylized editing, contributes to its unique and atmospheric tone. The use of contemporary music in the soundtrack, despite the historical setting, adds a modern and vibrant feel to the series.

Actors

• Cillian Murphy as Thomas "Tommy" Shelby: the leader of the Peaky Blinders and the main protagonist of the series. Murphy gives a captivating portrayal of a complex character torn between his ambition and his familial responsibilities.
• Sam Neill as Chester Campbell: an ambitious detective sent to Birmingham to clean up crime. Neill delivers a commanding performance as the determined and relentless antagonist.
• Helen McCrory as Polly Gray: Tommy's aunt and a fierce matriarch figure in the Peaky Blinders. McCrory brings depth and vulnerability to her character.
• Paul Anderson as Arthur Shelby: Tommy's hot-headed older brother and right-hand man. Anderson portrays Arthur's inner struggles with emotional intensity.
• Jordan Bolger as Isaiah Jesus: a younger member of the gang who proves his loyalty. Bolger brings youthful energy and resilience to the role.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The term "Peaky Blinders" refers to a real gang from Birmingham who supposedly sewed razor blades into the peaks of their caps for added intimidation.
• The show's atmospheric soundtrack features a mix of contemporary songs from artists like Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, The White Stripes, and Arctic Monkeys, blending seamlessly with the period setting.
• Peaky Blinders has gained a significant international following and has been praised for its stylish and gritty portrayal of the criminal underworld.

Awards

Peaky Blinders has been nominated for numerous awards, including BAFTA Awards, Primetime Emmy Awards, and Critics' Choice Television Awards. The show has won several awards for its exceptional writing, acting, and overall production.

Quotes

• "I'm not a traitor to my class. I am just an extreme example of what a working man can achieve." - Thomas Shelby
• "I don't pay for suits. My suits are on the house or the house burns down." - Arthur Shelby
• "I don't carry a gun. It doesn't suit my suit." - Thomas Shelby

Music, Soundtrack

• "Red Right Hand" by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds
• "I Wanna Be Yours" by Arctic Monkeys
• "Love Is Blindness" by Jack White
• "St. James Infirmary Blues" by Tom Jones
• "All My Tears" by Ane Brun