New Additions to the Cast
Steven Knight, the creator of the acclaimed series Peaky Blinders, recently spoke about the cast for his upcoming film based on the show, highlighting the addition of actors Rebecca Ferguson and Barry Keoghan. Knight made these remarks during The Royal Television Society’s London Convention on September 17, 2024. Cillian Murphy, who portrays the gangster Tommy Shelby, is expected to reprise his role alongside returning stars like Paul Anderson and Tom Hardy.
Film Details
Knight revealed that the film is set during World War II, describing the project as “really good.” While he remained tight-lipped about specific plot details, he mentioned that more casting announcements would be coming soon.
Knight’s Reflections on the Industry
In a candid moment, Knight shared his initial misconceptions about HBO’s Game of Thrones, thinking it was a children’s show due to his son’s interest. He recounted a conversation with a producer who suggested casting Aiden Gillen, leading to his surprise at discovering the show’s adult themes.
Upcoming Projects and Studio Vision
In addition to House of Guinness, which focuses on the Guinness family and their legacy starting in 1968, Knight has established a film and television studio complex in Birmingham called Digbeth Loc. He aims to create a comfortable and supportive environment for industry professionals, emphasizing the challenges of long hours and demanding work.
Knight envisions Digbeth Loc as a creative hub where filmmakers can enjoy both leisure and productivity. He expressed pride in transforming a derelict Victorian building into a vibrant studio space, noting its unique architecture as a valuable asset.
Championing Diverse Stories
When asked about representation in the industry, Knight stressed the importance of telling stories from various backgrounds. He believes that not showcasing the experiences of the majority of the population limits storytelling potential. “If you don’t tell the stories of 70% of the population, you’re missing out,” he stated, emphasizing that the most interesting narratives often come from unexpected sources.
In summary, Steven Knight is poised to make waves with House of Guinness, backed by an impressive cast and a vision for an inclusive film environment.