Netflix has unveiled the first look at Cillian Murphy in his upcoming film, . The celebrated 49-year-old Cork actor takes on the lead role in this adaptation of Max Porter’s novella, .
The newly released image captures Murphy with a beard, leaning against a blackboard in a scene from the film. He portrays the headteacher of a reform school during a critical day in his life.
Scheduled for a limited theatrical release in September, followed by its Netflix debut on October 3rd, the film boasts a stellar cast including Tracey Ullman, Emily Watson, and Simbi Ajikawo (the renowned London rapper Little Simz).
Murphy’s collaboration with British novelist Max Porter has deepened in recent years. It began with his appearance in a stage adaptation of Porter’s acclaimed novel, , in 2018. They also worked together on the short film .
Both Murphy and Porter are credited as producers on . They have also enlisted Tim Mielants to direct the film. Murphy and the Belgian director previously collaborated on and again on the adaptation of (2024).
The film’s September release coincides with a busy period for both Murphy and Porter, as they are also participating in the Sounds From A Safe Harbour festival in Cork (Sept 11-14). The star and his wife, artist Yvonne McGuinness, recently announced plans to renovate the Phoenix Cinema in Dingle, transforming it into an arts center.
Murphy is also involved in the 28 Years Later trilogy of sequels with Danny Boyle, director of , the 2002 film that provided Murphy with his international breakthrough. While Murphy does not appear in the first of these new films, he is expected to play a significant role in the next installment of the franchise, slated for release in 2026.
Hailing from Ballintemple, Murphy has also been filming the film adaptation of , titled , projected to hit screens in late 2025 or 2026.
