Netflix has released the first trailer for Steve, the latest collaboration between Oscar winner Cillian Murphy and director Tim Mielants, following their recent work together on Small Things Like These. The drama, written by Max Porter and based on his 2023 Sunday Times bestseller Shy, will have its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September before heading to select cinemas and later Netflix.
Watch the trailer above and read on for the details.
A Reimagined Story Told from a New Perspective
Set in the mid-1990s, Steve reimagines Porter’s acclaimed novel by shifting the focus to the head teacher’s point of view. The story unfolds over a pivotal day at a last-chance reform school, where Murphy’s character battles to save the institution from closure while confronting his own mental health struggles. In parallel, troubled teen Shy (Jay Lycurgo) wrestles with reconciling his traumatic past and the pull toward self-destruction.
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Murphy on One of His Most Exposing Roles
Speaking to Deadline, Murphy described Steve as “one of the most kind of exposing and terrifying characters I’ve ever played,” explaining that the role was written specifically for him by Porter. The actor, whose parents, grandfather, and many relatives were teachers, said the world of the film was familiar — though far more extreme. “You’re dealing with these very volatile and unpredictable and damaged kids,” Murphy said.
The actor also talked about the deeply immersive process of bringing the story to life. “I couldn’t have done it without knowing the people like the way I know these guys so well and trust them so much, because there was really no acting involved. It was kind of like reacting or existing or being and being available and being porous and being just completely without filter or anything like that. And it was f-cking scary in a great way, and it’s a very exhilarating way, but like, just you’re in this jangled state of anxiety for two months.”
Cast and Release Details
The cast also includes Tracey Ullman (Mrs. America), Simbi Ajikawo (Top Boy), and Emily Watson (Breaking the Waves). Produced by Murphy, Alan Moloney, and Tina Pawlik, the film features music by Ben Salisbury and Geoff Barrow.
Steve opens in select U.S., U.K., and Irish cinemas on September 19 and premieres on Netflix globally on October 3.
