Cillian Murphy is trending again: a once-forgotten film makes a surprising comeback, now being compared to a new John Wick on streaming platforms

In 2026, Cillian Murphy continues to confirm his status as one of the most compelling and bankable actors of his generation. After more than a decade embodying the enigmatic Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders, the actor recently returned in the long-awaited sequel film, Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man. While the film’s ending suggests a possible farewell to the iconic character, the door remains open for future appearances, a possibility that continues to intrigue fans worldwide.

This renewed spotlight comes on the heels of Murphy’s Oscar-winning performance in Oppenheimer, directed by Christopher Nolan. The film, a sweeping World War II epic, dominated the 2024 Academy Awards and marked a turning point in Murphy’s career, elevating him from a respected performer to a global cinematic force. His portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer showcased a nuanced intensity that has long defined his work, now finally recognized at the highest level.

Yet, beyond these headline-grabbing projects, one of Murphy’s more understated performances has quietly resurfaced in public attention. The 2019 action thriller Anna, directed by Luc Besson, has unexpectedly become a late-night sleeper hit across multiple streaming platforms. Initially overlooked upon its theatrical release, the film is now enjoying a second life, particularly in international markets where it has climbed into the top 10 most-watched titles.

Co-starring Helen Mirren, Luke Evans, and Sasha Luss, Anna tells the story of Anna Poliatova, a strikingly beautiful woman who transforms into one of the world’s most lethal assassins. While comparisons to John Wick are inevitable due to its stylized action sequences, the film’s narrative structure bears a closer resemblance to Atomic Blonde, blending espionage, identity shifts, and psychological tension.

The resurgence of Anna highlights a broader trend in the streaming era, where films that once struggled to find theatrical audiences can achieve renewed success online. In the United States, the film is primarily available on Prime Video and can also be streamed for free on The Roku Channel, making it accessible to a wide audience. Internationally, its presence on Starz has contributed to its growing popularity, while its performance on Apple TV as a VOD title underscores its commercial appeal.

For Cillian Murphy, this renewed attention to Anna serves as a reminder of the breadth of his filmography. While he is often associated with auteur-driven cinema and prestige television, his willingness to explore diverse genres—including action—has added layers to his career. This versatility has been a defining characteristic since his early collaborations with Christopher Nolan, including roles in Inception and The Dark Knight Trilogy.

Murphy’s journey to international recognition was anything but instantaneous. Born in Ireland, he initially pursued music before turning to acting, eventually gaining critical acclaim in films such as 28 Days Later and The Wind That Shakes the Barley. These early roles established his reputation as an actor capable of conveying both vulnerability and intensity, qualities that would become hallmarks of his performances.

His portrayal of Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders further cemented his cultural impact. Over the course of the series, Murphy crafted a character defined by quiet authority and emotional complexity, turning Shelby into one of television’s most iconic antiheroes. The longevity of the role—spanning over ten years—reflects both the show’s success and Murphy’s enduring appeal.

Off-screen, Murphy is known for maintaining a relatively private life, a rarity in an industry often driven by visibility. This discretion has allowed him to focus on his craft rather than celebrity, reinforcing his image as a serious actor committed to his roles. Unlike many of his contemporaries, he has largely avoided major scandals, a factor that has contributed to his steady and respected career trajectory.

Currently, Murphy is expanding his repertoire with new projects that continue to challenge expectations. He is in the midst of filming a prison drama directed by Damien Chazelle, where he stars alongside Daniel Craig. Early images from the set have already generated significant interest, suggesting another intense and character-driven performance.

In addition, Murphy is set to reprise his role as Emmett in A Quiet Place Part III, directed by John Krasinski. Scheduled for release in 2027, the film is currently in production and represents another major franchise entry in Murphy’s evolving career.

The convergence of these projects—alongside the unexpected resurgence of Anna—illustrates a moment of sustained momentum. Murphy is not only capitalizing on his recent accolades but also revisiting earlier works that now find new audiences in a different distribution landscape.

Ultimately, the story of Anna’s late-night success is as much about changing viewing habits as it is about Cillian Murphy’s enduring presence. In an era where streaming platforms redefine how audiences discover content, even overlooked performances can re-emerge with renewed significance.

As Murphy continues to navigate between blockbuster franchises, independent cinema, and streaming hits, his career reflects a balance between artistic ambition and mainstream appeal. It is this equilibrium that ensures his continued relevance, making each new project—and even past ones—worthy of renewed attention.