When Peaky Blinders wrapped its sixth and final season in April 2022, fans braced themselves for an inevitable goodbye to the Shelby family. Yet, as creator Steven Knight reveals, this gritty, stylish crime drama is far from over.
In an interview with the U.K.'s Times Radio, Knight disclosed that the upcoming film, The Immortal Man, may mark a transition rather than an ending. The production wrapped before the holidays, and while an official release date is pending, Knight suggests the film will likely debut by late next year.
“It's a bit too soon for that, but you can sort of work out that it will be about a year,” Knight hinted.
The Evolution of Peaky Blinders
Set amidst the tumultuous period between World War I and II, Peaky Blinders followed the Shelby family's rise through the underworld of Birmingham. With its sharp suits, brooding antiheroes, and a pulsating soundtrack, the series became a cultural touchstone, beloved for its rich characters and cinematic flair.
The film, The Immortal Man, ventures deeper into history, taking place during World War II. Knight has teased new complexities, with Rebecca Ferguson, Barry Keoghan, Jay Lycurgo, and Tim Roth joining the cast. Familiar faces—Cillian Murphy as Thomas Shelby, Sophie Rundle as Ada, and Stephen Graham—return, adding continuity and gravitas.
When asked if the film would close the chapter on Peaky Blinders, Knight's reply fueled speculation:
“It won't be the end, let me put it that way.”
This coyness leaves the door ajar for potential spin-offs, sequels, or even a sprawling cinematic universe.
Could Peaky Blinders adopt the “Downton Abbey” approach of periodic film sequels? Or might Knight explore other formats, blending television and film to expand the Shelby legacy?
Why Peaky Blinders Endures
The series' staying power lies in its balance of grandeur and intimacy. Beneath the stylized violence and political intrigue lies a poignant exploration of loyalty, ambition, and trauma. The upcoming film will likely delve further into these themes against the backdrop of global conflict.
Knight's storytelling ethos ensures every detail, from the historical accuracy of its world-building to the complexity of its characters, resonates. The addition of actors like Barry Keoghan, known for his haunting performances, suggests this expansion will be no exception.
Personal Impressions
As a long-time admirer of Peaky Blinders, the prospect of more content feels like an unexpected gift. The series excelled at weaving high-stakes drama with moments of quiet vulnerability—Thomas Shelby's stoic exterior often betraying profound inner turmoil.
The idea of expanding the franchise raises questions. Will it retain the sharpness of its writing and direction? Or might it risk diluting its potency, as some extended universes do? Knight's vision offers hope: his commitment to depth and authenticity has consistently elevated the series beyond genre conventions.
What do you think about the future of the Peaky Blinders franchise? Would you welcome film sequels or spin-offs, or should the story end on a high note?
