Netflix unveils first look at Cillian Murphy in role that 'broke his heart'

Peaky Blinders and Oppenheimer star Cillian Murphy is taking on one of his most poignant roles to date as he plays the head of a struggling school in a new Netflix film.

The streamer has just released the official first look images for the film, which is a reimagining of Max Porter’s Sunday Times bestseller, Shy. Set in the mid-90s, the film follows a significant day in the life of headteacher Steve (Murphy) and his students at a last-chance reform school amidst a world that has forsaken them.

The synopsis reads: "As Steve fights to protect the school’s integrity and impending closure, we witness him grappling with his own mental health.

"In parallel to Steve’s struggles, we meet Shy (Jay Lycurgo), a troubled teen caught between his past and what lies ahead as he tries to reconcile his inner fragility with his impulse for self-destruction and violence."

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The film in question is Steve, which will air in select cinemas on September 19 ahead of its Netflix release on October 3.

The cast also includes Tracey Ullman, Simbi Ajikawo and Emily Watson, as well as Roger Allam.

Academy Award winner Murphy said he was drawn to Porter’s writing, with the author also penning the scripts for Steve.

He and Murphy previously collaborated on the stage adaptation of Porter's Grief is the Thing with Feathers and the short film All of This Unreal Time.

On reading Shy for the first time, he told Deadline: "Max gave me that book in a proof edition before he finished it, and again it just broke my heart.

"They're the sorts of things I love as a reader and as a performer, so I really wanted to do something with him."

Fans have already flocked to the comments section for the official trailer, expressing their excitement.

@KabirM-k1n said: "Looks awesome! Anything with Murphy carries weight at this point."

@Ballooey added: "Looks awesome!!! Great job netflix!" While @ricsisule7802 commented: "This trailer is sick. Can't wait."

Steve will air in select cinemas on September 19 ahead of its Netflix release on October 3