Fresh off his historic Oscar win as the first Irish-born actor to receive the Best Actor award, Cillian Murphy is experiencing a surge in his career, taking on multiple film projects.
At the UK premiere of Small Things Like These, he shared his thoughts, noting that his busy schedule has served as a coping mechanism in the wake of his achievement.
This latest film, based on Claire Keegan’s acclaimed novel, is one of three films he has completed since the Oscars, highlighting his commitment to storytelling during this transformative time in his life.
Small Things Like These is set in Wexford, Ireland, in 1985, and follows the story of coalman Bill Furlong, portrayed by Murphy. Furlong becomes embroiled in the grim realities faced by unmarried mothers sent to Magdalene laundries in his town.
The film tackles the dark chapter in Ireland’s history where many women were subjected to harsh treatment under the guise of rehabilitation.
Murphy’s portrayal of Furlong allows him to explore complex moral questions and the impact of societal norms on individuals, particularly women who suffered in silence.
Murphy first introduced the film’s concept to actor and producer Matt Damon while working on Oppenheimer. He described Small Things Like These as a blend of “Manchester By The Sea” and “Doubt,” indicating a narrative that balances emotional depth with moral uncertainty.
Murphy’s admiration for Keegan’s writing shines through as he emphasizes the challenge of creating a film that honors the source material’s poignant and concise storytelling.
He aims to produce a film that not only entertains but also sparks conversation among viewers, highlighting the importance of engaging with difficult subjects.
The film is dedicated to the more than 56,000 young women who were confined to Magdalene institutions from 1922 to 1998 for “penance and rehabilitation.”
This dedication underscores the film’s commitment to shedding light on a dark aspect of Irish history, emphasizing the struggles of these women and the children who were taken from them.
Murphy recognizes the weight of this narrative and the responsibility of the filmmakers to tell these stories with sensitivity and respect.
In 2013, then-Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny issued a public apology on behalf of the state, acknowledging the shameful history of the Magdalene laundries.
This apology came in the wake of a report revealing that the state was responsible for a significant portion of admissions to these institutions.
Many women were placed there for reasons such as poverty or having children out of wedlock, and the last laundry closed in Dublin in 1996. The film serves as a reminder of this history, aiming to provoke thought and reflection on how society has treated marginalized individuals.
Small Things Like These marks the first film produced by Murphy’s independent production company, Big Things. He expresses a desire to prioritize storytelling that focuses on the human experience, making films that are both entertaining and thought-provoking.
His commitment to producing adaptations of novels reflects his dedication to rich narratives and character-driven stories. Murphy hints at future projects, signaling that his company will continue to explore profound themes through engaging storytelling.
Reflecting on his recent Oscar win for his role in Oppenheimer, Murphy describes the experience as surreal and dreamlike. He acknowledges the significance of the achievement but insists that his day-to-day life remains unchanged.
The accolade has not altered his perspective; instead, he views it as a humbling moment in his career. Murphy plans to take time to reflect on the win during the Christmas season, demonstrating his grounded approach despite the accolades.
In addition to Small Things Like These, Murphy has already completed filming the sequel to the cult classic 28 Days Later, titled 28 Years Later, which is scheduled for release in summer 2025. He is also currently involved in the production of a Peaky Blinders film, further expanding his repertoire and demonstrating his versatility as an actor.
Murphy describes the process of returning to these beloved characters as familiar yet refreshing, indicating that he is eager to continue exploring new directions in his career.
Small Things Like These is set to hit cinemas on November 1, and anticipation is building around the film’s release. With its compelling narrative and Murphy’s committed performance, the film promises to engage audiences and provoke discussions about the treatment of women in Irish society.
As a significant step for both Murphy and the themes explored in the film, it marks an important contribution to the ongoing conversation surrounding historical injustices.
Cillian Murphy’s journey post-Oscar has been one of continued artistic exploration and commitment to meaningful storytelling. His involvement in Small Things Like These illustrates his dedication to shedding light on important social issues while remaining focused on the human experience.
As he navigates this pivotal moment in his career, Murphy is poised to make an impact in both the film industry and the conversations that arise from the stories he chooses to tell.
