First look: Cillian Murphy stars in Netflix's 'Steve,' a gripping adaptation of Max Porter's 'Shy'
Netflix has released the first image of Cillian Murphy in Steve, a highly anticipated psychological drama adapted by Max Porter from his bestselling novella Shy. Scheduled for release in select UK cinemas and on Netflix on October 3, Steve marks the second major screen adaptation from Porter following his Berlinale debut The Thing With Feathers.
Netflix drops first look at Cillian Murphy in Steve, a gritty adaptation of Max Porter’s Shy, hitting screens October 3. Mental health and drama collide.
Courtesy of Netflix
Oscar-winner Cillian Murphy stars as the titular character, a headteacher at a last-chance reform school fighting to preserve the institution’s integrity amid looming closure. In the newly unveiled image, Murphy’s character is seen leaning against a blackboard, tennis ball in hand—a seemingly small gesture that hints at the psychological tension that underpins the story.
Directed by Tim Mielants (Peaky Blinders, The Terror), Steve presents a powerful, single-day narrative that explores mental health, redemption, and the fragility of leadership in a broken system. Murphy’s character must navigate not only the administrative collapse of the school but also his own unraveling mind.
The film also introduces Jay Lycurgo as Shy, a troubled youth struggling to escape a cycle of self-destruction. As Steve and Shy’s stories intersect, the film reveals deep emotional and psychological parallels between educator and student.
Rounding out the cast are Tracey Ullman, Simbi Ajikawo (known as Little Simz), and Emily Watson, alongside a strong ensemble that includes Douggie McMeekin, Youssef Kerkour, and Araloyin Oshunremi. With a screenplay crafted by Porter and direction from Mielants, Steve promises a deeply human and emotionally charged viewing experience.
