Why Cillian Murphy’s Subtle Performance Could Have Earned Him Another Oscar

Cillian Murphy’s latest performance in Small Things Like These may not have earned him an Oscar nomination for the 2025 Academy Awards, but it undeniably showcased qualities that could have made him a contender. Set against the backdrop of 1985 Ireland, the historical drama directed by Tim Mielants and adapted from Claire Keegan’s 2021 novel, touches on sensitive and significant social issues, including the haunting legacy of the Magdalene laundries. Despite the lack of an Oscar nomination, Murphy’s portrayal of Bill Furlong remains a standout performance that warrants closer examination.

A Gripping Performance in a Poignant Drama

The film’s world premiere at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival in February 2024 introduced audiences to Murphy’s nuanced depiction of Bill Furlong, a coal merchant who uncovers a disturbing truth about a local convent. As the film explores the painful reality of forced labor and abuse within Catholic-run institutions, Murphy’s role as the quietly conflicted Furlong anchors the story with emotional depth. Critics were quick to praise his performance, with James Mottram of Radio Times calling it “superb” and describing Murphy’s ability to convey subtle emotional intensity. His performance was lauded as “mesmerizing” by Tim Robey from The Telegraph and hailed as a “staggering performance” by Rachel Pronger of IndieWire. These accolades reflected a growing consensus that Murphy’s role was one of the film’s greatest strengths, positioning him as a leading candidate for prestigious acting nominations.

Critical Praise and Industry Recognition

The critical reception of Small Things Like These was overwhelmingly positive, with a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film’s strength in handling delicate historical material, combined with Murphy’s magnetic screen presence, earned the film several accolades, including a nomination for the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival. Murphy’s performance earned him the Best Lead Actor award at the 21st Irish Film & Television Awards in February 2025 and a second-place finish for Best Actor at the Dublin Film Critics’ Circle. These industry honors reinforced his status as one of the leading actors of his generation.

Additionally, Murphy’s recent success in winning the Best Actor Oscar for Oppenheimer in 2023 brought even greater attention to his role in Small Things Like These. When an actor triumphs in one high-profile film, there’s often a natural boost to their subsequent projects, and many expected Murphy to build on his momentum. His portrayal in this film, marked by subtlety and emotional restraint, demonstrated his versatility, providing an artistic contrast to the intensity of Oppenheimer.

Why It Could Have Been Oscar-Worthy

Several factors suggest that Small Things Like These had the potential to bring Murphy another Oscar nomination, if not a win:

• Performance Strength: Murphy’s ability to convey emotional depth through restraint was a central highlight of his performance. His portrayal of Bill Furlong, a man grappling with moral dilemmas in a tense social and historical environment, highlighted Murphy’s range and versatility—qualities that typically appeal to Academy voters.

• Historical Significance: The film’s exploration of the Magdalene laundries, a subject of immense historical and social significance, aligns with the Academy’s preference for films that tackle important social issues. Movies addressing real-life injustices, like Philomena or The Magdalene Sisters, have historically gained attention during awards seasons.

• Critical Momentum: The film’s strong reception at major film festivals, including the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival, built significant critical momentum. The film’s awards circuit success, particularly Murphy’s recognition at the IFTAs, also signaled its potential to reach a wider audience in the industry.

• Murphy’s Track Record: Fresh from his Oscar win for Oppenheimer, Murphy was in a prime position for another nomination. His performance in Small Things Like These showcased a different side of his talent, one rooted in subtlety and introspection, offering a deeper dimension to his acting prowess.

The Stiff Competition

However, Small Things Like These did not secure any nominations at the 2025 Academy Awards. The film’s limited release strategy may have contributed to its visibility challenges, as it premiered first in Ireland and the UK before making its U.S. debut later in the year. By the time it reached American audiences, the awards race was already dominated by high-profile campaigns and films with larger budgets and broader exposure, such as Emilia Pérez and Conclave, both of which garnered significant attention.

Despite Murphy’s exceptional performance, the competition was fierce, with other films drawing larger audiences and more robust industry support. Additionally, the Oscars’ landscape in 2025 was particularly crowded, making it difficult for smaller films like Small Things Like These to break through the noise.

A Future Oscar Contender?

While Cillian Murphy may not have been nominated for an Oscar in 2025 for Small Things Like These, his performance remains one of the most compelling aspects of the film. His portrayal of Bill Furlong demonstrated his range and ability to elevate a quiet, introspective narrative into something deeply resonant. As the awards season unfolds and more audiences discover Small Things Like These, it’s not out of the question that Murphy’s work in this film may be recognized in future accolades, solidifying his position as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and talented actors. Even if this film didn’t bring him another Oscar nomination, Murphy’s body of work, including his recent success in Oppenheimer, continues to reflect the depth of his craft, making him an actor to watch in future awards seasons.