Cillian Murphy Stars as Troubled Teacher in First Look at Netflix Drama 'Steve'

Netflix has unveiled a first-look image from its upcoming psychological drama 'Steve', starring Oscar winner Cillian Murphy in the lead role. Known for his intense performances in 'Oppenheimer' and 'Peaky Blinders', Murphy steps into the character of Steve, a reform school headteacher facing profound internal struggles.

Based on Max Porter’s acclaimed 2023 novella 'Shy', the movie is directed by Belgian filmmaker Tim Mielants, who previously collaborated with Murphy on 'Small Things Like These'. Jay Lycurgo co-stars as Shy, a deeply troubled teen, with additional performances by Tracey Ullman, Simbi Ajikawo (Little Simz), and Emily Watson.

Image Courtesy: Getty

What is 'Steve' About?

Set in the mid-1990s, 'Steve' reimagines Porter's best-selling story through the lens of a single, defining day at a last-chance reform school. As Steve tries to keep the school afloat and protect its mission in the face of looming closure, he also battles his deteriorating mental health. His quiet desperation and moral conflict unfold against a backdrop of institutional neglect and fading hope.

The story also centres on Shy, a 17-year-old caught in a whirlwind of emotional pain and unresolved trauma. Torn between his violent impulses and a fragile inner world, he mirrors many of Steve’s own struggles. The movie navigates the tension between these two characters, offering a raw exploration of isolation, identity, and redemption.

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Image Courtesy: Getty

Cillian Murphy, who is also a producer on the project alongside Alan Moloney and Tina Pawlik, brings personal resonance to the role. Both of his parents worked in education — his mother as a French teacher and his father in the Irish Department of Education — making his portrayal of a conflicted educator particularly compelling.

After winning his first Academy Award for 'Oppenheimer' earlier this year, Cillian Murphy has continued his momentum with 'Small Things Like These' and is preparing to return as Tommy Shelby in the highly anticipated 'Peaky Blinders' movie. He’s also confirmed to appear in Danny Boyle’s 'The Bone Temple', part of the '28 Years Later' trilogy.

'Steve' will premiere in select theatres this September and will be available to stream globally on Netflix starting 3rd October.

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