Top 10 Cillian Murphy movies and TV shows, ranked by IMDb

Cillian Murphy movies and TV shows | Images via Prime Video, Hotstar and Netflix
Cillian Murphy movies and TV shows | Images via Prime Video, Hotstar and Netflix

Cillian Murphy is an actor from Ireland. Cillian Murphy has received an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, as well as a Golden Globe Award for his theatrical and film efforts. He has assumed numerous roles in movies and television. All of his followers and critics admire his performances. Murphy brings every character to life, whether it's in a thriller, superhero film, or war film.

These are his top ten movies and shows as ranked by IMDb. It is his emotional strength and acting that are revealed in each role in a different way.

Disclaimer: This article is solely the writer's opinion. Reader discretion is advised.


The top 10 Cillian Murphy movies and TV shows (ranked by IMDb) are listed below:

10. Sunshine (2007)

Cillian Murphy as Capa | Image via Prime Video
Cillian Murphy as Capa | Image via Prime Video

Sunshine is a sci-fi thriller by Danny Boyle, in which Cillian Murphy takes up the role of Capa, a physicist sent to save the dying Sun. IMDb has rated this film as 7.2 out of 10. The film combines amazing visuals, eerie music, and serious expressions. Reddit fans describe it as a near masterpiece and a feast for the eyes and ears.

The more you watch it, the better, so the saying goes. Others eulogize its ability to mix grandiose ideologies with powerful performers. However, the viewers tend to argue about the twist at the end. Some people then think that it becomes a slasher-style conclusion, eliminating the degree of careful consideration. However, most acknowledge that the acting, visuals, and even the soundtrack are emotionally compelling and forgettable.


9. A Quiet Place Part II (2021)

A Quiet Place Part II | Image via Prime Video
A Quiet Place Part II | Image via Prime Video

In this movie, Cillian Murphy plays Emmett, a survivor who helps a family survive in a world full of noise-sensitive, lethal monsters. The IMDb rating is 7.2/10. Reddit fans adore the quiet but enthralling acting of Murphy and state that his eyes do make the part look real. One of the users said that his presence added the emotional layer, reminding him of his horror games.

Critics described the film as tense and well-structured, with good acting and sound. Some people disliked the sequel because the script failed to deliver the first surprise, and there were too many storylines to follow. Nevertheless, the majority concur that it provides excitement and tension, and Murphy adds value to the movie through his part.


8. The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006)

Cillian Murphy as Dr. Damien | Image via Prime Video
Cillian Murphy as Dr. Damien | Image via Prime Video

It is a Ken Loach film on war. Cillian Murphy stars as the doctor, Damien, who joins the Irish Republican Army (IRA) in the quest for Irish independence. Viewers can see how the war is devastating families in the movie. According to the fans, it is mighty and heart-wrenching. It received a 9 out of 10 from one IMDb user, who wrote:

"It is probably the greatest Irish movie ever"

The user said that the film's direction and acting are the top draw. Another Reddit user has been admiring Murphy's eyes, compassion, and soft intelligence. The film received the Palme d'Or at Cannes. It is renowned for its powerful imagery and emotional honesty. It is a straightforward but profound narrative. The movie reveals how devotion may falter under duress.


7. 28 Days Later (2002)

28 Days Later | Image via JustWatch
28 Days Later | Image via JustWatch

28 Days Later is a post-apocalyptic horror film by Danny Boyle. Cillian Murphy plays Jim. Viewers saw Jim wake up only to discover that in London, everything is deserted due to a virus outbreak. The film received 5/5 on IMDb. Fans love the raw emotion he displays. One user of the Reddit platform wrote,

“Cillian Murphy was the perfect casting as Jim and he absolutely nailed the role. His eyes showed every raw emotion so beautifully.”

Another fan noted that the tunnel sequence made them feel terrified as Murphy confronted his strength and fragility, completely upending the genre. Critics claim the film is tense and quick. Many of Murphy's supporters consider this to be one of his best performances ever, based on statistics. The narration is violent yet depicts optimism and humaneness.


6. Dunkirk (2017)

Dunkirk | Image via HBO
Dunkirk | Image via HBO

In Dunkirk, Cillian Murphy plays a shivering soldier who was a lost and shell-shocked man hiding in a submarine boat that sank. He has his little moment on stage, but the impression he leaves stays huge. Murphy's expression conveys dread and desperation as his hands shake as the boat starts to fill with water. IMDb gave the movie a 7.8 out of 10.

Online fans claimed that his appearance alone was the instrument of war horror. Critics complimented his small role, stating that he brought a layer of true human emotion. One noted that Murphy quickly illustrates the cost of war. His unspoken performance leaves the audience with a feeling of cold, dampness, and panic. Naturally, it is a quiet yet powerful moment that will stick in the audience's mind for a few minutes.


5. Oppenheimer (2023)

Cillian Murphy as Robert Oppenheimer | Image via Peacock
Cillian Murphy as Robert Oppenheimer | Image via Peacock

In Oppenheimer, Cillian Murphy plays the man behind the atomic bomb, J. Robert Oppenheimer. Among these, his speech immediately after the first use of the bomb can be considered one of the most outstanding. His proud smile turns to one of terror as he stands before the applauding scientists. He fantasizes about the death of a woman and images of a burnt body. The fans refer to it as haunting. On Reddit, one person posted that he/she was in the hall when the speech was given, and he/she was impressed by it:

“The camera just focuses on his face, and his expression of dread draws you in.”

Critics claim that this moment effectively conveys his anxiety and guilt. The moment gave the film a more spooky air due to Murphy's acting and the serious consequences of his actions.


4. Batman Begins (2005)

Batman Begins | Image via Hotstar
Batman Begins | Image via Hotstar

Cillian Murphy acts as Dr. Jonathan Crane, who turns into Scarecrow in Batman Begins. His sequence where he drugs Rachel and waits for Batman to enter the underground lair is one of his greatest. Murphy tenses up his eyes and says,

“He’s here… THE BAT‑MAN.”

Online fans call this scene brilliant and have reached the bar of supervillains. His body language and tone of voice shift, which makes the scene creepy and tense. IMDb has rated this movie at 8.2 out of 10.

Audiences commend his ability to combine calmness and insanity over a few seconds. Despite having limited screen time, he elevates the moment. This little turn is memorable, witty, and terrifying. It is among the pivotal moments in the movie.


3. Inception (2010)

Inception | Image via Netflix
Inception | Image via Netflix

In Inception, Cillian Murphy takes the role of Robert Fischer, a man whose mind is to be reshaped by the team. Among the most influential actions are the cases when he starts crying when recalling what his father said to him.

“You can’t deny yourself forever.”

Online fans reported that viewers shed tears at the scene. It is often observed how Murphy makes only his face express pain and guilt. According to reviewers, his performance forms the emotional center of the film. The subdued collapsing brings the reality of the dream world.

This scene is an indication of Murphy demonstrating profound emotions through stillness. It is one of the gritty, emotional scenes that most audiences do not forget after watching the credits.


2. Peaky Blinders (2013-2022)

Cillian Murphy in Peaky Blinders | Image via Netflix
Cillian Murphy in Peaky Blinders | Image via Netflix

Peaky Blinders is the story of the fierce yet cool leader of the Birmingham gang, played by Cillian Murphy. The IMDb rating of this show is 8.7 out of 10. Among his finest scenes occurs during Season 3 when Tommy confronts rival ganglord Alfie Solomons on a beach. When Alfie lashes out, he stands tense and keeps his mouth shut. Then Tommy draws a gun and hears and says,

“Well said, Alfie.”

Fans mention this as a powerful moment. One user claims that this is not feasible and that it is impossible to see why the improvements are consistently equal to zero.

"Cillian literally does not speak or move … yet we can all see the emotional transformation.”

Others praised Murphy's acting as a masterwork because of the blend of sorrow and serenity. His silence speaks for itself.


1. The Dark Knight (2008)

Cillian Murphy as Dr. Jonathan Crane | Image via Hotstar
Cillian Murphy as Dr. Jonathan Crane | Image via Hotstar

In The Dark Knight, the Scarecrow, Dr. Jonathan Crane, is played by Cillian Murphy again. A memorable scene is where he gives Batman his trademark fear gas mask and mutters,

“Would you like to see my mask?”

Social media followers dubbed the scene a highlight on the internet. One of the Redditors said,

“Cillian Murphy really nailed this role,”

It is one of the best moments of the Batman trilogy. His voice and stare instill fear, even despite the limited time. He comes along with an ominous charisma. According to fans, he should have appeared more on the screen as Scarecrow. That brief scene is noteworthy for creepiness and confidence.


It is concluded that these films and television shows highlight Cillian Murphy's skill and range as an actor. He performed well in every character, even when he had minimal screen time. His fans experienced his feelings in his eyes and voice. Cillian Murphy remained in their hearts despite their darkest fear, their silence, and their strength. His performance made a difference in both TV and movie theaters.

Love movies? Try our Box Office Game and Movie Grid Game to test your film knowledge and have some fun!

Edited by Debanjana