Irish icon Cillian Murphy unrecognisable in harrowing Netflix film

Netflix has released the first look images for the film, which is a reimagining of Max Porter’s Sunday Times bestseller. The film is set to be released on the platform in October

Peaky Blinders and Oppenheimer star, Cillian Murphy, is set to take on one of his most moving roles yet as he portrays the head of a struggling school in a new Netflix film.

Netflix has just unveiled the official first look images for the film, which is a reinterpretation of Max Porter’s Sunday Times bestseller, Shy. Set in the mid-90s, the film chronicles a pivotal day in the life of headteacher Steve (Murphy) and his pupils at a last-chance reform school in a world that has abandoned them.

The synopsis states: “As Steve fights to protect the school’s integrity and impending closure, we witness him grappling with his own mental health.

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“In parallel to Steve’s struggles, we meet Shy (Jay Lycurgo), a troubled teen caught between his past and what lies ahead as he tries to reconcile his inner fragility with his impulse for self-destruction and violence.”

The film, titled Steve, will be shown in select cinemas from 19 September before its Netflix release on 3 October, reports the Mirror.

The cast also features Tracey Ullman, Simbi Ajikawo and Emily Watson, along with Roger Allam.

Academy Award winner Murphy expressed his attraction to Porter’s writing, with the author also crafting the scripts for Steve.

Porter and Murphy have previously worked together on the stage adaptation of Porter’s Grief is the Thing with Feathers and the short film All of This Unreal Time.

Speaking to Deadline about his first reading of Shy, he said: “Max gave me that book in a proof edition before he finished it, and again it just broke my heart.

“They’re the sorts of things I love as a reader and as a performer, so I really wanted to do something with him.”

Fans have already taken to the comments section of the official trailer, expressing their anticipation.

@KabirM-k1n commented: “Looks awesome! Anything with Murphy carries weight at this point.”

@Ballooey chimed in: “Looks awesome! ! ! Great job netflix!” Meanwhile, @ricsisule7802 added: “This trailer is sick. Can’t wait.”

Steve airs on Netflix on October 3