Peaky Blinders

Peaky Blinders is a hybrid-genre television drama that blends elements of gangster, Western, and historical drama. The show, which first aired in September 2013 on BBC Two, follows the Shelby family as they run a criminal gang in post-World War I Birmingham. The series was created by Steven Knight, an established screenwriter and TV producer, whose background in film and television helped him craft a period drama with contemporary sensibilities. The show explores various themes, such as the social and economic impacts of World War I on the working class, as well as Tommy Shelby’s journey from crime to legitimate business and politics. Over the course of six seasons, Peaky Blinders has garnered critical acclaim, winning multiple awards, and attracting big-name actors like Tom Hardy, Adrien Brody, and Cillian Murphy, who plays the lead role of Tommy Shelby.

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In terms of broadcasting, Peaky Blinders was originally commissioned by BBC Two, but later moved to BBC One for its final two seasons. This transition marked a significant shift in the show’s mainstream visibility, helping it reach a larger audience. The series was produced by Caryn Mandabach Productions and Tiger Aspect, with the BBC playing a key role in funding. The show also reflects the BBC’s remit for public service broadcasting by striving to inform, educate, and entertain its audience, presenting complex historical narratives while remaining entertaining. The BBC's public service ethos is evident in Peaky Blinders’ commitment to high production values, accurate period details, and its exploration of social issues such as class, power, and post-war trauma.

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The global appeal of Peaky Blinders was further solidified through its casting choices and distribution. Actors such as Cillian Murphy, Sam Neill, Helen McCrory, and David Dawson were already well-established in the industry, adding credibility to the show and attracting a broader, international audience. Filming took place in various locations in the UK, including Birmingham and Liverpool, which gave the show a gritty, authentic atmosphere. Interestingly, the accents of the characters were toned down for international audiences, making the show more accessible to viewers outside the UK, while still maintaining the authentic British setting.

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Initially, Peaky Blinders was distributed in the United States by the Weinstein Company, but following a shift in distributors, it was picked up by Netflix. The streaming giant enabled the series to reach a global audience, further increasing its international popularity and helping to solidify its place in modern TV history. This digital distribution was crucial for the show’s success outside the UK, making it accessible to viewers across the world.

Peaky Blinders has also garnered significant praise for its high production quality. It has won numerous awards, including Best Director at the BAFTAs for its first season. The show has been celebrated for its lighting, set design, and costume design, all of which contribute to its distinctive visual style. These elements are key to the show's appeal, as they not only bring the 1920s to life but also underscore the gritty, noir tone that characterizes much of the series.

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The series uses its historical and social context—particularly the aftermath of World War I and its effects on the working class—as a backdrop for its storylines. This focus on post-war trauma, class struggles, and the shift from industrial to capitalist society provides a rich and engaging context for the characters' journeys. Through the character of Tommy Shelby, the show explores the complexities of post-war identity, power, and ambition, making Peaky Blinders both a gripping drama and a commentary on societal change.

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Questions to Check Learning

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1. Who created Peaky Blinders, and how did Steven Knight's background influence the show?

2. Which companies were involved in producing Peaky Blinders, and how did the BBC support its funding and distribution?

3. How did the transition from BBC Two to BBC One impact Peaky Blinders in terms of visibility and audience reach?

4. In what ways did the casting choices, particularly with actors like Cillian Murphy and Sam Neill, contribute to the show’s international appeal?

5. Why were the accents in Peaky Blinders toned down, and what effect did this have on the show’s accessibility to a global audience?

6. What role did Netflix play in the global distribution of Peaky Blinders, and how did this influence its international popularity?

7. How does Peaky Blinders reflect the values of public service broadcasting, and in what ways does it inform, educate, and entertain?

8. How does the show’s historical context, particularly the aftermath of World War I, enhance its exploration of themes like power, class, and post-war trauma?