I have to say, Cillian Murphy is absolutely brilliant in the new Netflix drama Steve! It’s available to watch right now, and it really got to me. The film centers around a reform school for boys who are struggling, and it all unfolds over just one day. Murphy plays the headteacher – and he’s incredible – as he desperately tries to save the school from being shut down. Netflix really delivered with this one, and I highly recommend checking it out!
The film Steve, adapted from Max Porter’s novel Shy (which he also wrote the screenplay for), has been well-received by critics. Many have especially praised Cillian Murphy, with The Guardian describing his performance as “outstanding.”
Here’s what reviewers have been saying.
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Empire
Showcasing Cillian Murphy’s impressive ability to convey emotion, Steve is a powerful and impassioned depiction of a failing education system – and a modern cinematic counterpart to Dead Poets Society.
The Guardian
This drama is full of wild energy and the intense, chaotic feeling of emotional pain, but it’s also balanced with moments of strange, dark humor. Max Porter has turned his 2023 short story, Shy, into a screenplay, and Cillian Murphy delivers one of his most free-spirited and expressive performances.
Rolling Stone
As the title indicates, the movie centers around Steve, and Cillian Murphy delivers a strong and convincing performance as a man struggling to cope with personal issues while trying to keep everything stable. The depth of those struggles is slowly uncovered throughout the film […] It’s both darkly humorous and makes you think – and it’s as suspenseful as you’d anticipate.
The Hollywood Reporter
Brief moments of humor and peace offer a welcome break from the intense energy that usually dominates this honest and empathetic portrayal of real life. Netflix should definitely promote this show to the same viewers who loved Adolescence, as it has the potential to be just as popular.

Los Angeles Times
The trope of disrespectful students and caring teachers is a well-worn story, almost begging for a fresh take. That’s why Steve, featuring Cillian Murphy as a committed but troubled principal at a challenging reform school for difficult teenage boys, is a welcome change with its bold and energetic approach.
The Times
Honestly, the game has this really intense, almost frantic feel to all the shaky camera work. At first, it’s exciting, but by the end, it feels like it’s deliberately trying to distract you from something. But Murphy? They’re absolutely captivating. I couldn’t take my eyes off them. Seriously, a standout performance.
The Independent
As a fan, I’d say Steve is a really well-made and heartfelt film. But it’s also clear the filmmakers intentionally wanted the story itself to be the main focus, rather than drawing too much attention to their own style or approach. They really let the source material shine!
Steve is available to stream now on Netflix.
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