Cillian Murphy, the enigmatic star of hits like Oppenheimer and Peaky Blinders, has recently opened up about one of the most cherished moments of his career. Surprisingly, it’s not from his blockbuster roles, but from his heartfelt performance in the upcoming drama Small Things Like These.
In an interview, Murphy shared his admiration for the emotional depth of the film, which is based on the acclaimed novel by Claire Keegan. The story, set in 1985 Ireland, follows a coal merchant named Bill Furlong as he wrestles with moral dilemmas in a tight-knit community. Murphy, who plays Furlong, called the role “one of the most quietly powerful” of his career.
But what really stood out to the actor was a specific scene that he described as “deeply personal.” Without giving too much away, the scene involves a tender interaction between Murphy’s character and a group of young children, capturing the essence of the film’s themes: compassion, resilience, and the fight for justice.
“It’s one of those rare moments in cinema where everything aligns perfectly—writing, direction, and the energy in the room,” Murphy said. “I walked away from that day on set feeling profoundly moved like we had truly created something timeless.”
The scene, according to insiders, was so poignant that it reportedly left the cast and crew in awe, with some calling it “Oscar-worthy.” Murphy himself said the experience reminded him why he fell in love with acting in the first place.
Directed by Tim Mielants (The Terror, Peaky Blinders), Small Things Like These is already generating awards buzz ahead of its release. Critics are predicting it will be a major contender during awards season, with Murphy’s performance being singled out as “career-defining.”
Murphy has become known for his intense, transformative roles, but this intimate project marks a refreshing departure. Fans are eagerly awaiting the film’s release, and many are curious to see this scene that Murphy holds so close to his heart.
As Murphy’s star continues to rise, it’s clear that Small Things Like These will be remembered as one of his most personal and profound projects. For an actor who’s given us unforgettable moments on-screen, this might just be his best yet.
Mark your calendars—Small Things Like These hits theaters this December. Don’t miss what could be Cillian Murphy’s most moving performance to date!