What the data shows
The highly anticipated film Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man raises a pivotal question: How will the story of the Shelby family evolve after the events of the series finale? The answer is both compelling and tragic, as the film, set in 1940, reveals the deep scars left by past actions, particularly the death of Arthur Shelby Jr.
In this new chapter, Sophie Rundle returns as Ada Thorne, alongside Cillian Murphy reprising his iconic role as Tommy Shelby. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a world on the brink of war, with the Shelby family grappling with the consequences of their violent past. The film premiered on March 20, 2026, and has already garnered a remarkable 91 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a strong reception from audiences and critics alike.
Central to the film’s plot is the revelation that Arthur Shelby Jr., played by Paul Anderson, is dead. According to the film’s narrative, Arthur died in 1938, a victim of a confrontation with Tommy Shelby. “I killed our brother Arthur. It wasn’t an accident. It wasn’t an act of mercy. I killed him because I was full of booze and rage,” Tommy confesses, a line that encapsulates the film’s exploration of guilt and familial loyalty.
While the film delves into the emotional turmoil surrounding Arthur’s death, it notably omits the character of Lizzie Shelby, who does not appear in this installment. This absence raises questions about the direction of the Shelby family dynamics and how they will be portrayed moving forward. Steven Knight, the creator of the series, has stated, “You can’t just gloss over them,” referring to the complexities of the characters’ relationships and the unresolved issues that linger.
The film continues the story of the Shelby family after the events of the final season of Peaky Blinders, providing a deeper understanding of the characters’ motivations and struggles. As the world around them changes, the Shelbys must confront their past actions and the impact they have on their future. The film’s setting in 1940 places it at a critical juncture in history, as Europe teeters on the edge of World War II, adding another layer of tension to the narrative.
As audiences await further developments in the Shelby saga, the film raises intriguing questions about the future of the characters. What will become of Ada Thorne and her relationship with Tommy? How will the family cope with the loss of Arthur? These questions remain at the forefront as viewers delve into the complex world of Peaky Blinders.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the potential for future projects in the Peaky Blinders universe, but the success of The Immortal Man suggests that the story of the Shelbys is far from over. With strong performances and a gripping narrative, the film promises to keep audiences engaged as they navigate the tumultuous waters of the Shelby family’s legacy.