Cillian Murphis set to explore the gritty world of union politics and murder in his latest project,Blood Runs Coal. The film, produced by Universal, is an adaptation of Mark A. Bradley’s non-fiction book. It delves into the 1969 murder of mining union organizer Joseph “Jock” Yablonski and the subsequent investigation that exposed corruption within the coal industry, as perVariety.
Murphy, fresh off his Oscar win for his portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer inOppenheimer, is not only starring inBlood Runs Coalbut also taking on the role of producer alongside John Davis, Jordan Davis, and Alan Moloney. The project marks another venture into the non-fiction space for Murphy, who seems drawn to stories rooted in real events and complex characters.

The film’s narrative centers around the tragic murder of Yablonski, who was a vocal critic of the corrupt union leadership. Yablonski’s assassination, along with that of his wife and daughter, sparked a lengthy investigation that revealed the dark underbelly of the coal industry and its union politics. The story is a compelling exploration of power, greed, and the fight for justice.
Cillian Murphy’s Best Performances, Ranked
Cillian Murphy is generating a lot of buzz for his performance in Oppenheimer. Here is a look at his best roles, ranked.
The screenplay forBlood Runs Coalwill be adapted by the talented duo Jez Butterworth and John-Henry Butterworth, known for their work onEdge of TomorrowandFord V Ferrari. Their involvement promises a gripping and well-crafted script that will bring the harrowing tale to life on the big screen.

Murphy Returns as Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders Movie Sequel
Murphy is also set to reprise his iconic role as Tommy Shelby in the upcomingPeaky Blindersmovie. The film willcontinue the story of the notorious gang leader, following the conclusion of the popular TV series. Murphy’s return to the character has been highly anticipated by fans, and the movie is expected to delve deeper into Tommy Shelby’s complex world. Steven Knight, writer and director, revealed:
“The film, I know exactly what it’s about. And I know what two stories it’s going to tell. How the story will unfold, I don’t know. What will happen after that, I want that to depend on the film. For all we know somebody is going to pop out – I think I know who it’s going to be.

In series six we’re bringing in the new generation, and they are going to be part of what happens in the film. I think it’s finding those actors that you just watch and you think, there you go. There’s the future.”
Peaky Blinders
A British ganagster saga set in 1919 post-war Birmingham. Cillian Murphy is Thomas Shelby, leader of the most feared and powerful local gang, the Peaky Blinders. Named for their practice of sewing razor blades into the peaks of their caps, they make money from illegal betting, protection and the black market. But when a crate of guns goes missing from an arms factory, their battle-hardened leader recognizes an opportunity to move up in the world.
Murphy’s upcoming projects showcase his versatility as an actor and his ability to tackle a wide range of roles. From a gang leader inPeaky Blindersto a scientist inOppenheimer, and now a union organizer inBlood Runs Coal, Murphy continues to captivate audiences with his performances.

AsBlood Runs Coaland thePeaky Blindersmovie move forward in production, fans of Murphy can look forward to seeing him bring these compelling stories to life. With his talent and dedication to his craft, Murphy is sure to deliver yet another memorable performance inBlood Runs Coal, shedding light on a dark chapter in American history.