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Peaky Blinders: Real Story vs. Screen Myth
24 Feb
Summary
- Creator's mother was an illegal bookie's runner in childhood.
- The real Peaky Blinders gang disbanded before the show began.
- New film 'Immortal Man' continues Shelby story into WWII.
A new documentary, 'Peaky Blinders: The Real Story,' has unveiled the authentic Birmingham family folklore behind the acclaimed series. Creator Steven Knight shared personal anecdotes, including his mother's childhood work as an illegal bookie's runner. Filmmaker Robin Bextor's documentary aims to distinguish historical fact from fictional narrative.
Bextor highlighted that the initial mention of the Peaky Blinders dates back to 1890, predating the on-screen gang's formation after World War I, indicating the real group had ceased to exist before the series commenced. The film also examines the show's production, including its distinctive use of modern rock music and Americana-inspired visuals.
This exploration comes as a new Netflix film, 'The Immortal Man,' is set to continue the Shelby family saga into World War Two, followed by two more BBC series extending into the 1950s. Bextor's documentary serves as a tribute to the show's Brummie origins and Steven Knight's acclaimed writing.
