Uniting against genocidal psychopaths is a necessity for the long term survival of humanity. Those who oppose or stand and watch are complicit in its downfall.
Over to the set of Peaky Blinders.
Liberating humanity from monsters.
Peaky Blinders for those who have not had the pleasure
The BBC series Peaky Blinders is a dramatic exploration of post-World War I Britain, weaving together themes of power, loyalty, betrayal, and ambition. Created by Steven Knight, this gripping historical drama first aired in 2013 and quickly gained a devoted following. Its masterful storytelling, compelling characters, and atmospheric production have cemented its place as one of the most beloved British television series of the 21st century.
Set against the industrial backdrop of Birmingham in the 1920s, Peaky Blinders chronicles the rise of the Shelby family, a notorious gang operating under the guise of a legitimate betting business. With a blend of gritty realism and poetic stylisation, the series delves into the personal and professional lives of the Shelby clan as they navigate the volatile world of organised crime.
Plot Summary
The narrative of Peaky Blinders is centred around Thomas “Tommy” Shelby, the ambitious and enigmatic leader of the Peaky Blinders gang. Over six seasons, the series charts the gang’s journey from a small-time criminal enterprise to a powerful organisation with national and international influence. Each season builds upon the previous one, introducing new challenges, allies, and enemies, while delving deeper into the psyche of its complex characters.
Season 1: Foundations of Power
The story begins in 1919, with Tommy Shelby returning from the horrors of World War I to his working-class neighbourhood in Birmingham. He leads the Peaky Blinders, a gang named after their practice of sewing razor blades into the peaks of their caps. The season focuses on Tommy’s ambitions to expand their betting business and consolidate power.
A pivotal plotline is the arrival of Chief Inspector Chester Campbell, sent by Winston Churchill to retrieve stolen military weaponry and dismantle criminal networks in Birmingham. Campbell becomes Tommy’s primary adversary, igniting a battle of wits and influence. Meanwhile, Grace Burgess, an undercover agent working for Campbell, infiltrates the Peaky Blinders but becomes romantically entangled with Tommy.
Season 2: Expansion and Ambition
Season 2 follows the gang’s expansion into London’s underworld, where they clash with established organisations like the Italian mafia and Jewish gangsters led by Alfie Solomons. Tommy’s business ambitions are matched by his personal struggles, particularly his grief over Grace’s departure and the increasing weight of leadership.
This season explores the intricate balance of maintaining family loyalty while pursuing power. Polly Gray, the family matriarch, plays a significant role as a moral compass, often in conflict with Tommy’s ruthless decisions.
Season 3: International Intrigue
As the Peaky Blinders gain prominence, they attract the attention of more powerful entities, including international arms dealers and political organisations. Tommy finds himself entangled in a complex plot involving the Russian aristocracy and the British government, forcing him to navigate a dangerous web of deceit and manipulation.
The season also explores Tommy’s relationship with Grace, whom he marries, only to face a devastating loss when she is killed. This tragedy marks a turning point for Tommy, pushing him further into darkness.
Season 4: Retribution and Family Feuds
The Shelby family faces one of their greatest threats when they are targeted by the Italian mafia, led by Luca Changretta, seeking revenge for the death of his family members. The season is a tense exploration of loyalty, with the Shelby family forced to reconcile internal conflicts to survive.
Tommy’s leadership is tested as he orchestrates a series of risky moves to outmanoeuvre Luca, culminating in a dramatic showdown. Alongside the gang warfare, the season delves into the emotional toll of Tommy’s choices on his family and himself.
Season 5: Political Ambitions
Set against the backdrop of the 1929 Wall Street Crash, Season 5 sees Tommy entering the realm of politics as a Labour MP. His growing influence attracts the attention of Oswald Mosley, the leader of the British Union of Fascists. The season focuses on Tommy’s attempts to undermine Mosley while grappling with his mental health and haunting visions of Grace.
The political intrigue adds a new dimension to the series, highlighting the intersection of crime and power. The season ends on a dramatic cliffhanger, leaving Tommy’s fate uncertain.
Season 6: Concluding the Saga
The final season ties together many of the series’ threads while introducing new challenges. Tommy faces betrayal from within his ranks and contemplates his legacy as he seeks redemption for past sins. The season explores themes of mortality, legacy, and the cost of ambition, providing a poignant conclusion to the Shelby family saga.
Key Characters
Thomas “Tommy” Shelby
At the heart of Peaky Blinders is Tommy Shelby, portrayed with intensity by Cillian Murphy. Tommy is a war veteran turned criminal mastermind, driven by ambition and haunted by the traumas of war. His intelligence, charisma, and ruthlessness make him a formidable leader, but his inner turmoil often manifests in self-destructive behaviour. Over the series, Tommy evolves from a local gang leader to a national figure, though his journey is marked by personal loss and moral compromises.
Polly Gray
Polly, played by Helen McCrory, is the Shelby family matriarch and treasurer of the Peaky Blinders. Her sharp intellect and unwavering loyalty make her a vital force within the organisation. Polly’s character is a complex blend of maternal warmth and steely resolve, often providing a counterbalance to Tommy’s ambitions. Her tragic death in the final season leaves a profound void in the series.
Arthur Shelby
Arthur, Tommy’s older brother, is the gang’s enforcer, known for his volatile temper and loyalty to the family. Played by Paul Anderson, Arthur’s struggles with PTSD and addiction provide a raw portrayal of the psychological scars left by war. Despite his flaws, Arthur remains a deeply loyal and integral member of the Shelby clan.
Grace Burgess
Grace, portrayed by Annabelle Wallis, is an undercover agent who infiltrates the Peaky Blinders but ultimately falls in love with Tommy. Her character is central to the early seasons, serving as both a romantic interest and a source of moral conflict for Tommy. Her death becomes a defining moment in the series.
Alfie Solomons
Tom Hardy’s portrayal of Alfie Solomons, a Jewish gangster with a penchant for manipulation and dark humour, adds a dynamic element to the series. Alfie’s shifting alliances and enigmatic personality make him one of the show’s most memorable characters.
Oswald Mosley
Introduced in Season 5, Oswald Mosley, played by Sam Claflin, is a historical figure woven into the fictional narrative. As a charismatic and dangerous political leader, Mosley becomes a formidable adversary for Tommy, representing the rise of fascism in 1930s Britain.
Themes and Impact
Peaky Blinders is more than a crime drama; it is a rich tapestry of historical, social, and psychological themes. The series examines the impact of war on individuals and society, the complexities of family dynamics, and the corrupting influence of power. It also offers a nuanced portrayal of the era’s cultural and political landscape, from the rise of socialism to the encroachment of fascism.
The show’s stylistic choices, including its modern soundtrack and meticulous production design, have contributed to its distinctive identity. Songs by artists such as Nick Cave and Arctic Monkeys underscore key moments, blending contemporary music with the period setting to create a unique aesthetic.
