Educational Film: Cillian Murphy Portrays a Reform School Headmaster Navigating Mental Health Issues
The upcoming Netflix drama Steve, directed by Tim Mielants, is set to make its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) next month. This gripping drama, produced by Big Things Films and Tina Pawlik, stars Cillian Murphy as the titular character.
Based on Max Porter's novel Shy, Steve is a reimagining that transports the story from a personal narrative to a wider social drama. The film is set in the mid-'90s and focuses on a pivotal day in the life of Steve, the headteacher at a last-chance reform school for troubled boys. Steve is fighting to save the school from imminent closure while grappling with his own mental health challenges.
Parallel to Steve’s story is Shy, a vulnerable yet volatile student, portrayed by Jay Lycurgo, who is caught between his past and what lies ahead as he tries to reconcile his inner fragility with his impulse for self-destruction and violence.
The key differences between Steve and Shy lie in the film’s broader focus and dramatic expansion. While Shy is a novella centred on the emotional life and perspective of the student Shy, Steve reframes the story as a single day, highlighting both the headteacher’s burden and the students' struggles. This deepens the exploration of institutional pressures and mental health, and places more emphasis on the systemic challenges facing the reform school and Steve’s leadership role.
Cillian Murphy, known for his powerful performances, has stated that his role in Steve is one of the most exposing and terrifying characters he has ever played. The film also features a talented ensemble cast, including Tracy Ullman, Simbi Ajikawo, and Emily Watson.
Ben Salisbury and Geoff Barrow are the music composers for Steve, adding an extra layer of emotion to the narrative. Max Porter, the author of the original novel, serves as an executive producer and has also written the script for Steve alongside Tim Mielants.
Steve will have its world premiere at TIFF next month. It will be released in select cinemas in the US, UK, and Ireland on September 19, and will premiere on Netflix on October 3. This thought-provoking drama promises to be a must-watch for fans of Cillian Murphy and those interested in exploring complex themes of mental health, institutional pressures, and the human spirit.
