Movies

Tom Hardy’s Best Performance Was in Locke Before Peaky Blinders

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Tom Hardy’s portrayal of Alfie Solomons in “Peaky Blinders” is undoubtedly one of the series’ standout performances, yet it might be argued that his most stellar acting was alongside the show’s creator in “Locke”. Before landing the lead role in “Locke”, Tom Hardy had already established himself as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors. The low-budget film is a gripping drama chronicling a resolute family man and entrepreneur, embarking on a journey to fulfill a personal commitment that will dismantle the life he has meticulously constructed.

It wasn’t until after the debut of “Locke” that director Steven Knight decided to include Tom Hardy in the cast of “Peaky Blinders”, where he portrayed Alfie starting from season 2. The Jewish gang leader, who could be either an untrustworthy ally or a formidable adversary to Tommy Shelby (played by Cillian Murphy), was introduced. Tom Hardy delivers a captivating performance in this role, yet his character Alfie stands in stark contrast to the protagonist he played in “Locke”. This collaboration between Hardy and Knight is highly recommended for fans of the actor.

Tom Hardy’s Performance In Locke Is Brilliant (& Unique)

Hardy Commands The Movie As The Only Actor On Screen

Besides Tom Hardy’s outstanding portrayal as the main character, the film Locke features a remarkably talented ensemble cast, comprising Tom Holland, Andrew Scott, and Olivia Colman, before they achieved widespread recognition. Interestingly, these actors lend their voices to the movie, while Hardy is the sole actor who physically appears throughout the entirety of Locke’s runtime. The film is daring in its minimalist approach, confined to a single location – a car – as Hardy’s character, Locke, drives to be with a woman he had an affair with, who is giving birth.

In “Locke,” the main character, played by Tom Hardy, engages in phone conversations with different individuals throughout the film without ever leaving his car or the screen. Few actors can maintain audience attention for an entire movie on their own, as demonstrated by Tom Hanks in “Cast Away” and Sandra Bullock in “Gravity.” However, what truly sets Hardy’s performance in “Locke” apart is his remarkable ability to portray a reserved character throughout the entire film.

In a performance, one might anticipate holding the audience’s interest with grand gestures, but instead, Hardy skillfully immerses himself in the character, giving him depth. Throughout the story, Locke finds himself juggling resolving a work predicament upon his return, comforting a pregnant woman he barely knows, and admitting his mistakes to his family. Remarkably, despite being embroiled in a crisis of his own creation, Hardy manages to make Locke both compelling and endearing as a character who is unwaveringly resolute about doing what’s right and taking accountability for his actions.

Despite seldom raising his tone and appearing calm, Hardy skillfully conveys both his anguish and rationale for his actions. Initially, he might seem detached, but over time, it becomes evident that he is enacting a role – a man who accepts the unavoidable repercussions of his actions and will endure the consequences.

Tom Hardy & Steven Knight Also Teamed Up For Another TV Show

Taboo Premiered In 2017

Tom Hardy and Steven Knight have once again teamed up for a third project, demonstrating their shared enthusiasm for working together. If you’re a fan of Peaky Blinders, especially appreciative of Tom Hardy’s performance on the show, then Taboo is definitely worth your time. This period drama, set in the early 1800s, follows James Delaney (played by Hardy), a man presumed dead who returns to London after years in Africa. His goal is to claim his father’s shipping business, but he finds himself embroiled in conflict with enemies and seeking revenge.

The series serves as another impressive demonstration of Hardy’s captivating screen persona, as his character Delaney shares some resemblances with Alfie from Peaky Blinders. Both characters are menacing and unconventional, navigating the world by their own codes, instilling fear in almost everyone they encounter. Yet, despite its first season debuting in 2017 and receiving renewal, Taboo season 2 has yet to materialize. The initial season left many plot threads unresolved, and fans are eagerly awaiting Hardy’s return to this intriguing role.

Is Tom Hardy Returning For The Peaky Blinders Movie?

Cillian Murphy Returns As Tommy Shelby

Although the TV series “Peaky Blinders” concluded after its sixth season, there remains a possibility that Tom Hardy’s character, Alfie, could reappear. The planned “Peaky Blinders” film has been officially announced to further the narrative of Cillian Murphy’s Tommy Shelby. In addition, several intriguing new actors are joining the cast, such as Rebecca Ferguson, Barry Keoghan, and Tim Roth. Nevertheless, no official word has been given yet regarding Hardy’s return. When asked about the film and Alfie’s potential involvement, Hardy stated:

100% certainty: Alfie is going to show up, although I can’t specify the exact time… and honestly, I can’t guarantee it either; I’m just speculating.

Based on their long-standing collaborative partnership in shows like Locke, Peaky Blinders, and Taboo, it’s plausible to assume that Steven Knight and Hardy may have talked about returning for the movie. Given Hardy’s readiness and Alfie being a fan favorite character, it seems probable that we might see Alfie again in the upcoming cinematic tale.

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2025-06-07 22:10

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