Cillian Murphy is the epitome of versatility and subtlety in modern cinema. Whether he’s leading a band of ruthless gangsters or navigating the intricate layers of a dream within a dream, Murphy’s performances are a masterclass in restraint and depth. With a career that spans across independent gems and blockbuster epics, Murphy has become one of the most compelling actors of his generation. As the Oscars approach, there’s no better time to revisit his most iconic roles—each a testament to his uncanny ability to transform into the very soul of his characters.

1. Peaky Blinders (2013–2022)

When Cillian Murphy stepped into the shoes of Thomas Shelby, he didn’t just portray a character—he created a cultural icon. “Peaky Blinders,” the gritty period drama set in post-World War I Birmingham, is as much about the rise of the Shelby crime family as it is about Murphy’s transformative performance. As the gang leader, Murphy’s Shelby is a man of contradictions: ruthless yet principled, charming yet dangerous, broken yet unyielding.

The brilliance of Murphy’s performance lies in the nuances he brings to Shelby’s character. He doesn’t rely on grand gestures or explosive outbursts; instead, he conveys power and vulnerability through a single glance or a measured pause. Over the course of six seasons, Murphy’s portrayal evolved, delving deeper into Shelby’s psyche as he grapples with PTSD, loss, and the weight of leadership. It’s no wonder that “Peaky Blinders” has become a phenomenon, with Murphy at its heart, delivering one of the most memorable performances in television history.

2. 28 Days Later (2002)

Before “Peaky Blinders” catapulted him to international stardom, Murphy had already made his mark with a hauntingly raw performance in Danny Boyle’s “28 Days Later.” The film, which revitalized the zombie genre for the 21st century, begins with a disoriented Murphy waking up in an abandoned hospital, only to find the world decimated by a viral outbreak.

As Jim, Murphy navigates a post-apocalyptic landscape, his vulnerability and confusion gradually giving way to a fierce survival instinct. The role demanded both physical and emotional endurance, and Murphy delivered on all fronts. His portrayal of a man struggling to retain his humanity in the face of horror is one of the reasons why “28 Days Later” remains a landmark in the genre.

Murphy’s performance is crucial to the film’s success, grounding its fantastical premise in genuine emotion. As Jim transitions from a passive survivor to a determined protector, Murphy captures the evolution with a sincerity that makes every moment feel authentic. It’s a performance that announced Murphy as a force to be reckoned with, and it’s one that still resonates over two decades later.

3. Inception (2010)

Christopher Nolan’s “Inception” is a film that challenges both the intellect and the senses, weaving a narrative that is as complex as it is visually stunning. Among its ensemble cast, which includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Marion Cotillard, Cillian Murphy holds his own as Robert Fischer, the target of a high-stakes heist carried out within the layers of his own dreams.

Murphy’s role in “Inception” might not be the most prominent, but it is pivotal. As Fischer, the heir to a vast corporate empire, Murphy brings a surprising emotional depth to a character who could have easily been a mere plot device. His portrayal of Fischer’s strained relationship with his dying father adds a layer of vulnerability to the film’s intricate plot, making the character’s journey through his subconscious both compelling and tragic.

In a film filled with mind-bending concepts and stunning visuals, Murphy’s understated performance provides an emotional anchor. His ability to convey a lifetime of unresolved pain in just a few scenes is a testament to his skill as an actor. It’s no small feat to stand out in a film like “Inception,” yet Murphy does so with grace and subtlety, proving that even in a supporting role, he can leave a lasting impact.

4. The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006)

In Ken Loach’s “The Wind That Shakes the Barley,” Cillian Murphy delivers one of the most powerful performances of his career. The film, set against the backdrop of the Irish War of Independence, sees Murphy take on the role of Damien O’Donovan, a young doctor who becomes a reluctant revolutionary.

Murphy’s portrayal of Damien is both poignant and stirring, capturing the internal conflict of a man torn between his duty to his country and his desire to heal rather than harm. The film doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of war, and neither does Murphy, who brings a quiet intensity to the role that makes Damien’s journey all the more heartbreaking.

The film’s critical acclaim, culminating in its victory at the Cannes Film Festival, was well-deserved, and Murphy’s performance was a significant factor in its success. He brings a raw, emotional truth to the character, making Damien’s sacrifice resonate long after the credits roll. “The Wind That Shakes the Barley” is a film that highlights Murphy’s range, showcasing his ability to carry a film on his shoulders and deliver a performance that is both nuanced and deeply affecting.

5. Dunkirk (2017)

Returning to collaborate with Christopher Nolan, Cillian Murphy takes on a smaller, yet no less impactful role in the World War II epic “Dunkirk.” As a shell-shocked soldier rescued from the water, Murphy’s character is a portrait of trauma and fear, embodying the psychological scars of war.

Despite limited screen time, Murphy’s performance is one of the most memorable in the film. He portrays the soldier’s terror and guilt with a raw authenticity that cuts through the film’s larger-than-life spectacle. In a movie dominated by sweeping aerial shots and intense battle sequences, it is Murphy’s quiet, broken portrayal that lingers in the mind.

“Dunkirk” is a technical marvel, with its interwoven timelines and relentless tension, but it’s Murphy’s performance that provides the emotional core. His ability to convey so much with so little dialogue is a testament to his talent, making the soldier’s plight one of the most human elements in the film. It’s a role that once again demonstrates Murphy’s versatility, proving that even in a supporting role, he can deliver a performance that is both subtle and searing.

Conclusion

Cillian Murphy’s filmography is a testament to his extraordinary range as an actor. From the post-apocalyptic streets of London to the battlefields of Dunkirk, Murphy has inhabited a wide array of characters, each distinct, each unforgettable. As the Oscars draw near, there’s no better time to dive into his work and witness the evolution of an actor who has quietly become one of the most compelling figures in contemporary cinema.

These five films are not just showcases of Murphy’s talent—they are a journey through his career, highlighting the diversity of roles he has mastered and the emotional depth he brings to each one. Whether or not an Oscar is in his future, one thing is certain: Cillian Murphy’s performances will continue to resonate, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema. So, before the next awards season kicks into high gear, take the time to explore these films—you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for an actor whose work transcends the screen, leaving a lasting impact on all who watch