This article explores the success and cultural impact of Peaky Blinders, a popular BBC drama set in post-World War I Birmingham. The show’s gripping plot, stunning cinematography, and immersive character development make it a must-watch.
The year is 1919, just after the end of World War I (1914-1918), and the setting is Birmingham, England, one of the most successful industrial centers in Europe. Combine all of this with a well-constructed plot, plenty of whiskey, razor-lined caps, and cinematography that transports you to another era—bingo! You’ve got Peaky Blinders.
This BBC-produced drama follows the Shelbys, a notorious gangster family known for their violent clashes with rivals and involvement in an illegal horse race betting scheme.
A Hit Since 2013
First launched in 2013, Peaky Blinders broke viewership records in England with the release of its fifth season on BBC One, the network’s main channel. In Brazil, the show became a sensation, helped by the COVID-19 pandemic that had many people binge-watching at home. All five seasons are available on Netflix, making it a must-see for fans of crime drama.
The Storyline
The script, penned by British writer Steven Knight, who was nominated for an Oscar in 2004 for Dirty Pretty Things, follows the life of Tommy Shelby (played by Cillian Murphy). Tommy is the calculating and ambitious leader of the Shelby family, who controls the streets of Birmingham but is haunted by memories of the war.
Forget the romanticized stories that movies often present—Peaky Blinders throws you headfirst into a gritty narrative, making you root for the villains. Alongside Tommy, his older and arguably more violent brother Arthur (Paul Anderson) and their brother John (Joe Cole) form the trio at the helm of the family’s criminal empire. Polly (Helen McCrory) and Ada (Sophie Rundle) round out the main family cast.
The Cinematic Brilliance
One of the standout aspects of the show is its stunning cinematography. Directors of photography like Laurie Rose, a BAFTA winner in 2016 for London Spy, and Colm McCarthy, known for Sherlock Holmes, enhance the show’s gripping narrative with their visual expertise, making the storyline even more memorable.
The show’s costume design is equally remarkable. Costume designer Stephanie Collie, known for her work on Hellboy, conducted extensive research to craft the elegant 1920s looks of the Shelby family, inspired by the book Crooks Like Us, which features stories and photos of criminals, prostitutes, and murderers from that era. Even the haircut sported by the Shelbys became a trend in certain parts of England.
The Series Overview
With a spoiler alert in effect, Peaky Blinders follows the intelligent yet violent Thomas Shelby as he returns as a war hero after World War I. He leads his family into the illegal betting business, creating a monopoly of power by controlling small pubs and businesses throughout the city. The story of these gangsters is based on true events—rival gangs frequently clashed over control of local commerce during that period.
While the series is packed with scenes of sex, drugs, and violence, there’s enough romance woven into the plot to make viewers deeply invested in the characters’ lives. If you’re looking for something to binge during quarantine, Peaky Blinders is a top pick. With five seasons available and creator Steven Knight confirming that the sixth season is written and “will be the best yet,” it’s definitely worth diving into.
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Felipe Cruz - Journalist, writes for Bendita when inspired
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