Cillian Murphy, known for his roles in various films and TV shows, recently shared his journey of turning the book 'Small Things Like These' into a film. Murphy, a fan of the author Claire Keegan, was captivated by the story's beauty and themes, prompting him to consider producing a film adaptation. His production company, Big Things Films, was named as a nod to the book.
'Small Things Like These' delves into the historical context of the Magdalene laundries in Ireland, following an ordinary man with repressed trauma during Christmas in 1985. Murphy found the story's complexity intriguing and saw potential to offer audiences a unique perspective on society, complicity, shame, and guilt.
As an actor, Murphy appreciated the unconventional nature of the male protagonist in a story primarily about women. He highlighted the character's journey and the aftermath of the film as particularly compelling aspects. Murphy's collaboration with familiar faces like director Tim Mielants and playwright Enda Walsh added depth to the project.
Notably, Murphy's connection with Matt Damon, a producer through Artists Equity, played a role in the film's production. Damon's interest in the script and his understanding of storytelling contributed to the project's success.
Reflecting on his recent Oscar win for 'Oppenheimer,' Murphy acknowledged the humbling experience and its potential impact on attracting interest from U.S. distributors. Despite the accolades, Murphy remains focused on telling meaningful stories that resonate with audiences and offer a unique perspective.
With 'Small Things Like These' set to premiere in North American theaters, Murphy's dedication to storytelling and collaboration shines through, showcasing his passion for bringing compelling narratives to the screen.
