Peaky Blinders Information
Peaky Blinders is a British period crime drama television series created by Steven Knight. It is set in Birmingham, England, in the aftermath of World War I, capturing the story of the fictional Peaky Blinders gang, which is loosely based on a real gang active in the region from the 1880s to the 1920s.
Start Date
The series premiered on 12 September 2013. It originally aired on BBC Two for the first four series before moving to BBC One for the fifth and sixth series. The show concluded with its sixth series in 2022, after a total of 36 episodes spanning six seasons.
Cast
The show features an ensemble cast led by Cillian Murphy as the gang leader Tommy Shelby. Other main cast members include Helen McCrory as Polly Gray, Paul Anderson as Arthur Shelby, Sophie Rundle as Ada Shelby, and Joe Cole as John Shelby, among others. The series also featured notable actors such as Tom Hardy, Paddy Considine, Sam Neill, and Anya Taylor-Joy appearing in various episodes throughout its run.
Why English People Like It
Peaky Blinders appeals to English audiences for its gritty portrayal of post-WWI Birmingham, blending historical events with compelling storytelling. It captures the social and economic upheaval of the era, reflecting on class struggles, the rise of new ideologies, and changing roles in society, especially for women. The stylish aesthetics, complex characters, and intense plotlines resonate deeply, offering a fresh take on period drama with a dose of crime and psychological intensity.
Peaky Blinders Summary
Peaky Blinders is recognized as a groundbreaking British television drama that combines historical context with rich character development and thrilling criminal plots. The show follows Tommy Shelby, a cunning and ambitious gangster, as he guides his family through the turbulent interwar years. From their beginnings in the post-WWI era riding horses through muddy streets to becoming influential figures with political and economic power, the series explores the transformation of both the gang and England itself.
The show's attention to historical detail is notable, with storylines often intersecting with real historical figures and events, creating a rich tapestry that enhances the dramatic tension. The combination of modern music, period-appropriate style, and intense interpersonal dynamics makes Peaky Blinders stand out among other period dramas.
Although the series ended in 2022, it continues to have a strong cultural footprint and has even expanded into a planned feature-length film continuing the story after the television finale.