Peaky Blinders is a critically acclaimed British crime drama created by Steven Knight that first aired in 2013. Set in post-World War I Birmingham, England, the show follows the exploits of the Shelby family, led by the charismatic and ruthless Thomas Shelby (played by Cillian Murphy). The family runs the Peaky Blinders gang, notorious for sewing razor blades into the brims of their caps, giving the show its name. The series delves into their rise to power, battles with rival gangs, interactions with political figures, and the intricate dynamics within the Shelby family.
The show is celebrated for its gritty realism, complex characters, stylish cinematography, and a unique soundtrack that blends modern music with the period setting. It also explores themes such as class struggle, loyalty, ambition, and the psychological impact of war on soldiers.
Season 1 introduces the audience to the Shelby family and their business ventures in Birmingham, 1919. Thomas Shelby, a former soldier and leader of the Peaky Blinders, aims to expand the family’s criminal empire beyond the illegal bookmaking business and into legitimate ventures. However, his ambitions attract the attention of both rivals and the law.
As the story begins, the gang steals a shipment of military-grade weapons, unintentionally drawing the ire of Chief Inspector Chester Campbell (played by Sam Neill), who is sent by Winston Churchill to recover the weapons and restore order in Birmingham. Campbell, a morally complex character, becomes the show’s main antagonist, determined to bring down the Peaky Blinders.
Thomas is not only focused on expanding his power but also on protecting his family, which includes his fiercely loyal brothers, Arthur (Paul Anderson) and John Shelby (Joe Cole), as well as his strong-willed aunt, Polly Gray (Helen McCrory), who plays a key role in the family’s operations.
As the season unfolds, Thomas meets Grace Burgess (Annabelle Wallis), a new barmaid at the local pub who is secretly working as an undercover agent for Campbell. Their relationship becomes complicated as they develop feelings for each other, despite Grace’s initial mission to spy on Tho
