Cillian Murphy’s mesmerizing eyes have captivated audiences for years, but it wasn’t until his Oscar-winning performance in “Oppenheimer” that he truly received the recognition he deserves. Known for his transmutable talent, Murphy has tackled a wide range of roles, from horror movies to comic-book fare to war pictures.
One of Murphy’s breakout roles was in Danny Boyle’s zombie masterpiece “28 Days Later,” where he portrayed Jim, a man who wakes up in a hospital bed 28 days after a monstrous virus outbreak. Murphy’s haunting performance in this film showcased his ability to play haunted characters with depth and nuance.
In “Sunshine,” Murphy played physicist Robert Capa, a scientist on a mission to reignite the fading sun with a bomb. Directed by Boyle and written by Alex Garland, the film explores themes of faith and survival in deep space, with Murphy delivering a powerful performance that blends doubt and heroism.
Murphy’s versatility is further highlighted in Neil Jordan’s film “Breakfast on Pluto,” where he portrays a trans woman named Kitten. Murphy brings a sense of wistfulness and fantasy to the character, showcasing his range as an actor.
In Wes Craven’s thriller “Red Eye,” Murphy plays Jackson Rippner, a maniacal terrorist who entraps Rachel McAdams’s character in his plan. Murphy’s ability to switch between ethereally beautiful and terrifyingly villainous adds depth to his portrayal of the character.
Murphy’s work in Christopher Nolan’s “Dunkirk” as a traumatized soldier is also noteworthy, showcasing his ability to convey heartbreak and humanity through his performance.
From his role in the Palme d’Or-winning drama “The Wind That Shakes the Barley” to his regular television role in “Peaky Blinders,” Murphy continues to impress audiences with his talent and versatility on screen. With a wide range of performances to explore, Murphy’s work is definitely worth checking out for fans of quality cinema.
