The 3 Rules That Shaped Peaky Blinders—And Why Some Actors Couldn’t Handle Them

The BBC drama Peaky Blinders became an instant cultural phenomenon due to its gripping storyline, historical authenticity, and unforgettable performances. Set in 1920s Birmingham, the show followed the Shelby family as they navigated the criminal underworld in the aftermath of World War I. To maintain the series’ historical accuracy and immersive experience, the cast was required to follow strict guidelines during filming. Here, we explore the three key rules that the cast adhered to, as well as the broader context of their commitment to authenticity.

1. Mastering the Birmingham Accent

One of the most important aspects of Peaky Blinders was the authenticity of its setting, particularly the depiction of the Birmingham accent, which was crucial to the show’s realism. The Brummie accent, native to Birmingham, is known for its complexity, and its portrayal on screen posed a unique challenge. Show creator Steven Knight, a Birmingham native himself, emphasized the difficulty of the accent, stating that many production companies shy away from filming in the city because of its linguistic intricacies.

To ensure the cast was up to the task, actors like Cillian Murphy, who played Tommy Shelby, were given specific training. Murphy worked closely with Knight to perfect the accent, and Helen McCrory, who portrayed Polly Gray, even studied videos of Ozzy Osbourne to master the brogue. For some, like Eleanor Tomlinson, failing to nail the accent meant missing out on the role, demonstrating just how essential this rule was to the production’s authenticity.

2. Practicing Method Acting

The cast’s commitment to their characters was evident through their dedication to method acting. Method acting is a technique where actors fully immerse themselves in their roles, often staying in character between takes. This approach was not just encouraged—it was a rule on set. Alexander Siddig, who played Ruben Oliver in Season 3, described the set as “full-on, not fun,” underscoring the emotional intensity of the experience. Cillian Murphy, known for his dedication to his craft, revealed in interviews that he refrained from socializing during filming, instead focusing on learning lines and resting.

This intense approach to acting was emotionally demanding, with the cast often remaining in character at all times, including off-camera. While this helped create the raw, authentic performances that became the hallmark of the series, it also took a toll on the actors’ emotional well-being, with some reporting feelings of isolation during the filming process.

3. Adopting Authentic 1920s Hairstyles

Another key rule for the cast was adhering to the period-specific hairstyles that defined the 1920s. Male actors, in particular, had to sport haircuts that reflected the era, such as undercuts or texturized crops. These styles were inspired by World War I soldiers, who shaved parts of their heads for hygiene reasons, and became an iconic part of the show’s visual identity. Cillian Murphy, although initially displeased with the haircut, eventually embraced it as an integral part of his character’s transformation.

In addition to the main cast, extras were also required to follow strict guidelines for their hair and facial hair, ensuring consistency throughout the production. This attention to detail in every aspect of the cast’s appearance contributed to the show’s immersive atmosphere, helping to transport audiences to post-war Birmingham.

Additional Rules and Context

While these three rules were particularly highlighted in a 2021 article from Cheatsheet, other sources, such as the Cyprus Mail, outlined additional guidelines the cast followed during filming. These included the use of nicotine-free cigarettes to avoid health risks in the smoky set environment, as well as developing period-appropriate skills like Murphy learning to ride a horse and adjust his voice to fit his character. Another important rule was the decision to avoid large celebrity cameos, a choice that kept the focus on the story and its characters rather than external distractions.

The emphasis on maintaining historical accuracy and immersion was key to Peaky Blinders‘ success. These rules not only helped the cast portray their characters authentically but also ensured the show’s world felt as real as possible, resonating with audiences both in the UK and internationally.

Impact and Reception

The cast’s dedication to these rules contributed to the critical acclaim the series received, with Peaky Blinders garnering a 93% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The show’s attention to detail—whether it was the accents, hairstyles, or the immersive performances—helped elevate it beyond a typical period drama, spawning cultural trends such as the “Peaky Blinders” haircut and influencing fashion worldwide.

However, the emotional toll of method acting and the intense focus on authenticity also raised questions about the demanding nature of such practices. Fans and critics alike have praised the cast’s commitment but also noted the challenges they faced in maintaining such a high level of immersion throughout filming.

Conclusion

The rules followed by the cast of Peaky Blinders are a testament to the show’s dedication to authenticity and immersive storytelling. From mastering the Birmingham accent to adopting 1920s hairstyles and fully committing to method acting, the cast’s efforts played a crucial role in bringing the world of the Shelbys to life. These guidelines, while rigorous, helped create one of the most memorable and beloved dramas of the last decade. As Peaky Blinders continues to resonate with audiences, it’s clear that the cast’s dedication to their craft will be remembered as a key part of the series’ enduring success.