Cillian Murphy Movies and TV Shows

Cillian Murphy is a famous actor from Ireland. He has played many different roles in both movies and TV shows. People first started noticing him in the early 2000s, and he has become very popular since then.

Cillian Murphy started off as a musician and then left law school to become an actor. His first big acting job was in a play called “Disco Pigs.” This play was very successful and took him on tours across Europe, Canada, and Australia for nearly two years. After that, he began acting in movies, mostly smaller, British films.

His big break came with the movie “28 Days Later” in 2002, directed by Danny Boyle. This movie was very popular and helped him become famous worldwide. After this, he got a small part in the movie “Cold Mountain” and then played the villain Scarecrow in “Batman Begins.” He also acted in the thriller “Red Eye.”

Even though he acted in some big Hollywood movies, Cillian Murphy also worked in smaller films like “Breakfast on Pluto” and “Sunshine.” He continued to appear in big movies, including “In the Heart of the Sea” and “Dunkirk.” Cillian Murphy has had a diverse career, acting in both big and small movies.

We’ll take a look at some of his best movies and TV shows. This article provides a comprehensive list of Cillian Murphy movies and TV shows, showcasing his versatile talent and creative vision.

Cillian Murphy is an Irish actor, born on May 25, 1976, in Douglas, Cork, Ireland. He started as a musician but then decided to become an actor. His first big acting job was in a play called “Disco Pigs,” which made him famous.

Cillian became well-known worldwide after starring in the movie “28 Days Later” in 2002. He played the villain Scarecrow in “Batman Begins” and its sequels. He also acted in “Inception” and “Dunkirk,” both directed by Christopher Nolan.

On TV, Cillian is famous for his role as Thomas Shelby in the BBC series “Peaky Blinders.” This show is about a gangster family in Birmingham after World War I.

Recently, Cillian starred in the movie “Oppenheimer” (2023), where he plays the lead role of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the scientist behind the atomic bomb. This movie is directed by Christopher Nolan.

Cillian Murphy is known for his powerful acting and ability to play many different characters. He continues to work in both movies and TV shows, earning praise from fans and critics.

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Cillian Murphy is a famous Irish actor who has acted in many movies and TV shows. He is known for his strong acting skills and his ability to play many different characters in both movies and TV shows. He gained worldwide fame with the movie “28 Days Later” (2002) and played the villain Scarecrow in “Batman Begins” (2005). He is highly acclaimed for his role as Thomas Shelby in the TV show “Peaky Blinders” (2013-2022). Cillian also starred in “Inception” (2010) and “Dunkirk” (2017), both directed by Christopher Nolan. Recently, he played J. Robert Oppenheimer in the 2023 movie “Oppenheimer,” also directed by Nolan.

1. 28 Days Later (2002)

• Movie Summary: Directed by Danny Boyle, “28 Days Later” is a post-apocalyptic horror film that revitalized the zombie genre. The story follows Jim, a bicycle courier who awakens from a coma to find London deserted and overrun by rage-infected humans.
• Murphy’s Role and Performance: Murphy’s role as Jim marked his breakthrough in Hollywood. His portrayal of a man grappling with the collapse of society is both gripping and authentic. Murphy captures his character’s fear, desperation, and eventual resolve, making Jim a memorable protagonist.

The film was made on a modest budget of $8 million but grossed over $82 million worldwide. It received critical acclaim for its innovative approach to the zombie genre and Murphy’s performance. The success of “28 Days Later” opened doors for Murphy in the international film industry.

2. Sunshine (2007)

• Movie Summary: Directed by Danny Boyle, “Sunshine” is a sci-fi thriller about a mission to reignite the dying Sun. The story follows a group of astronauts tasked with delivering a nuclear payload to the Sun to save humanity.
• Murphy’s Role and Performance: Murphy stars as Robert Capa, the physicist responsible for the mission’s payload. His performance is intense and introspective, capturing the character’s sense of duty and the emotional strain of the mission. Murphy’s portrayal adds a philosophical dimension to the film’s exploration of survival and sacrifice.

Although “Sunshine” had a modest box office performance, grossing $32 million against a $40 million budget, it received positive reviews for its visuals, direction, and performances. Murphy’s role was particularly praised for bringing depth to the film’s existential themes.

3. Inception (2010)

• Movie Summary: Directed by Christopher Nolan, “Inception” is a science fiction thriller that explores the concept of dream invasion and manipulation. The film’s intricate plot revolves around a group of thieves who enter the dreams of others to steal valuable secrets.
• Murphy’s Role and Performance: Cillian Murphy plays Robert Fischer, the heir to a vast business empire, whose subconscious becomes the target of the protagonist’s team. Murphy’s portrayal of Fischer, a character dealing with deep-seated emotional issues, adds a human touch to the otherwise cerebral film. His performance was praised for its nuance and depth, helping the audience empathize with Fischer’s internal conflict.

“Inception” was a commercial and critical success, grossing over $836 million worldwide. The film received eight Academy Award nominations and won four, including Best Cinematography and Best Visual Effects. Murphy’s high-profile project involvement further solidified his status as a versatile and talented actor.

4. The Dark Knight Trilogy (2005-2012)

• Movie Summary: Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight Trilogy” redefined the superhero genre with its dark, complex storytelling and realistic portrayal of characters. Murphy appears as Dr. Jonathan Crane, also known as Scarecrow, a villain who uses fear-inducing toxins.
• Murphy’s Role and Performance: Murphy’s performance as Scarecrow is both menacing and intriguing. He brings a psychological depth to the character, making him one of the standout villains in the trilogy. Murphy’s Scarecrow appears in “Batman Begins” (2005), “The Dark Knight” (2008), and “The Dark Knight Rises” (2012), each time leaving a lasting impression.

The trilogy was a massive commercial success, with a combined box office gross of over $2.4 billion. It received numerous awards and nominations, including two Academy Awards for “The Dark Knight.” Murphy’s recurring role in the trilogy showcased his ability to bring consistency and depth to a complex character over multiple films.

5. Dunkirk (2017)

• Movie Summary: “Dunkirk,” directed by Christopher Nolan, is a war film that depicts the harrowing evacuation of Allied soldiers from Dunkirk, France, during World War II. The film focuses on the perspectives of land, sea, and air to portray the intensity and desperation of the situation.
• Murphy’s Role and Performance: Murphy plays a traumatized soldier rescued from a sinking ship. His performance is haunting and realistic, capturing the psychological impact of war. Murphy’s character, though not central to the plot, adds emotional depth and humanizes the large-scale conflict depicted in the film.

“Dunkirk” was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $526 million worldwide. It won three Academy Awards and was nominated for eight, including Best Picture and Best Director. Murphy’s performance was noted for its subtlety and emotional resonance.

6. Oppenheimer (2023)

• Movie Summary: Directed by Christopher Nolan, “Oppenheimer” is a biographical drama that delves into the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the physicist often called the “father of the atomic bomb.” The film chronicles his early years, his crucial role in the Manhattan Project during World War II, and the subsequent ethical and moral dilemmas he faced as the world grappled with the devastating power of nuclear weapons.
• Murphy’s Role and Performance: Cillian Murphy stars as J. Robert Oppenheimer, bringing his characteristic intensity and depth to the role. Murphy’s portrayal captures the complexity of Oppenheimer’s character—a brilliant scientist with profound ethical concerns. His performance effectively conveys Oppenheimer’s internal conflicts, his sense of responsibility, and the burden of his contributions to the atomic age. Murphy’s ability to portray both the intellectual rigor and the emotional turmoil of Oppenheimer adds a compelling layer to the film.

“Oppenheimer” was both a critical and commercial success, grossing over $700 million worldwide. The film was praised for its meticulous historical accuracy, Nolan’s direction, and the performances of its cast, particularly Murphy’s portrayal of the titular character. “Oppenheimer” garnered numerous accolades, including several Academy Award nominations. Murphy’s performance was highlighted by critics for its depth and nuance, with some calling it one of the best of his career.

7. The Way We Live Now (2001)

• Summary: Based on Anthony Trollope’s novel, this BBC miniseries explores greed and corruption in 19th-century England. Murphy plays Paul Montague, a principled young engineer involved in a financier’s schemes.
• Murphy’s Role and Performance: Murphy’s portrayal of Paul Montague is earnest and compelling. His performance adds a moral dimension to the series, highlighting the character’s struggle to maintain his integrity in a corrupt society.

“The Way We Live Now” was well-received, earning a BAFTA nomination for Best Drama Serial. Murphy’s role in the series helped establish him as a talented actor capable of tackling complex characters early in his career.

8. Peaky Blinders (2013-2022)

• Summary: “Peaky Blinders,” created by Steven Knight, is a British crime drama set in post-World War I Birmingham. The series follows the Shelby family, particularly Thomas Shelby, as they build their criminal empire.
• Murphy’s Role and Performance: Murphy’s portrayal of Thomas Shelby is iconic. He combines charisma with ruthless ambition, creating a complex character who is both feared and admired. Murphy’s performance has been widely acclaimed, earning him several award nominations and cementing his status as a leading actor in television.

“Peaky Blinders” has become a cultural phenomenon, influencing fashion and pop culture. The show has received numerous awards, including a BAFTA for Best Drama Series. Murphy’s performance has been a key factor in the show’s success, drawing a global audience and critical acclaim.

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Cillian Murphy is a versatile actor known for his intense and nuanced performances across various genres. From psychological thrillers to science fiction epics, Murphy has consistently delivered compelling portrayals that charm audiences. This article explores some of his most notable roles, highlighting his range and talent.

1. Breakfast on Pluto (2005)

• Movie Summary: Directed by Neil Jordan, “Breakfast on Pluto” is a comedy-drama based on Patrick McCabe’s novel. The film tells the story of Patrick “Kitten” Braden, a transgender woman growing up in 1970s Ireland amidst political turmoil.
• Murphy’s Role and Performance: Cillian Murphy stars as Kitten, delivering a performance that is both sensitive and authentic. His portrayal of Kitten earned him a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy. Murphy’s ability to capture Kitten’s resilience, charm, and vulnerability made this role a standout, showcasing his talent for embodying complex characters.

“Breakfast on Pluto” received positive reviews for its unique blend of humor and pathos, with Murphy’s performance being a significant highlight. The film, although not a major box office hit, grossed $4.8 million and has since gained a cult following for its heartfelt narrative and Murphy’s transformative performance.

2. A Quiet Place Part II (2020)

• Movie Summary: Directed by John Krasinski, “A Quiet Place Part II” is a post-apocalyptic horror film and a sequel to the 2018 hit “A Quiet Place.” The story follows a family struggling to survive in a world overrun by creatures that hunt by sound.
• Murphy’s Role and Performance: Murphy plays Emmett, a hardened survivor who has lost his family to the creatures. His character brings a new dynamic to the film, offering a blend of cynicism and reluctant heroism. Murphy’s performance adds depth to the narrative, making Emmett a memorable and integral part of the story.

“A Quiet Place Part II” was both a critical and commercial success, grossing over $297 million worldwide despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Critics praised the film for its suspenseful atmosphere and strong performances, with Murphy’s portrayal of Emmett being noted for adding emotional complexity to the sequel.

3. Red Eye (2005)

• Movie Summary: Directed by Wes Craven, “Red Eye” is a psychological thriller that takes place on a red-eye flight from Dallas to Miami. The plot centers around Lisa Reisert, a hotel manager who is coerced into assisting a terrorist plot by a fellow passenger.
• Murphy’s Role and Performance: Murphy plays Jackson Rippner, the charming yet menacing terrorist who manipulates Lisa throughout the flight. His performance is chilling and intense, effectively conveying the duality of his character’s charm and malevolence.

 “Red Eye” was a box office success, grossing $96.2 million worldwide. Murphy’s portrayal of Jackson Rippner received praise for its psychological depth and his ability to maintain suspense throughout the film. This role further showcased Murphy’s versatility as an actor, capable of delivering captivating performances in diverse genres.

Cillian Murphy has built an impressive career in both movies and TV shows. His standout roles in “28 Days Later,” “Batman Begins,” and “Peaky Blinders” have made him a well-known and respected actor. Cillian’s versatility is evident in his performances in “Inception,” “Dunkirk,” and the recent “Oppenheimer.” Whether playing a hero, a villain, or a complex character, Cillian Murphy continues to captivate audiences with his talent and dedication. His contributions to the world of entertainment are significant, and fans eagerly await his future projects.

What is Cillian Murphy most famous for?

Cillian Murphy is most famous for his role as Thomas Shelby in the TV show “Peaky Blinders” and for his performances in movies like “28 Days Later,” “Batman Begins,” and “Inception.”

What are Cillian Murphy’s best movies?

Some of Cillian Murphy’s best movies include “28 Days Later,” “Batman Begins,” “Inception,” “Dunkirk,” and “Oppenheimer.”

Will Cillian Murphy win an Oscar?

Cillian Murphy wins Best Actor for Oppenheimer in 96th Oscar’s.

Are there any Cillian Murphy movies on Netflix?

Yes, some of Cillian Murphy’s movies are available on Netflix, including “Inception” and “Batman Begins.” Availability may vary by region.

What are some of Cillian Murphy’s most notable movies? 

Cillian Murphy has starred in several acclaimed movies, including “Inception,” “The Dark Knight Trilogy,” “28 Days Later,” and “A Quiet Place Part II.”

Which TV shows have Cillian Murphy appeared in? 

Cillian Murphy is best known for his role as Thomas Shelby in the TV series “Peaky Blinders.” He has also appeared in shows like “The Way We Live Now” and “The Wind That Shakes the Barley.”

How is Cillian Murphy’s acting style described?

Cillian Murphy is known for his intense and immersive performances, often portraying complex characters with depth and subtlety.

Has Cillian Murphy received any awards for his performances? 

Yes, Cillian Murphy has received several awards and nominations for his acting, including a Golden Globe nomination for his role in “Breakfast on Pluto” and an oscar for Oppenheimer.

What criteria were used to rank Cillian Murphy’s movies and TV shows? 

Cillian Murphy’s movies and TV shows were ranked based on factors such as critical reception, audience ratings, awards, and the impact of his performances on each project.