Is Cillian Murphy’s ‘Small Things Like These’ Leaving Netflix? Streaming Status Explained
The fast-paced streaming landscape often sees acclaimed films cycling in and out of digital libraries almost as swiftly as they arrive. Viewers frequently find that celebrated festival favorites vanish from their watchlists just as they gain traction through word-of-mouth. This rapid turnover has recently raised concerns among fans keeping tabs on the impressive post-awards filmography of Irish actor Cillian Murphy.
After his success at the 96th Academy Awards for his role in Christopher Nolan’s historical epic ‘Oppenheimer’, Murphy opted for a unique creative direction. Instead of diving straight into Hollywood blockbusters, he dedicated his talents to smaller, character-focused projects rooted in Irish history and European literature. This artistic choice has garnered significant admiration, prompting cinephiles worldwide to closely monitor where his films are available.
For those wondering if ‘Small Things Like These’ is leaving Netflix, the answer is yes, but it varies by region. The acclaimed historical drama is set to exit Netflix in several international markets, with October 27 marking the last day to view the film on the platform. This departure signifies the end of an initial licensing agreement that brought this understated period drama to audiences around the globe.
Streaming platforms often secure non-exclusive or time-limited distribution deals for independent films that debut outside their own studios. Since ‘Small Things Like These’ was independently financed alongside Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s Artists Equity and distributed by Lionsgate, its availability on Netflix is subject to regional contract expirations. Once the licensing period ends, distribution rights typically revert or shift to competing video-on-demand services.
Viewers in the United States may experience a different streaming landscape compared to international audiences. Domestic distribution for the film was primarily managed by Roadside Attractions and Lionsgate, leading to alternative viewing options on platforms like Hulu and various digital storefronts. However, for millions of international subscribers accessing the film directly through Netflix, the countdown to late October is very much a reality.
Adapted by playwright Enda Walsh from Claire Keegan’s acclaimed 2021 novella, the film is set in County Wexford during the harsh winter of 1985. Murphy stars as Bill Furlong, a quiet coal merchant and devoted father who inadvertently uncovers shocking abuse occurring within a local convent. The story confronts Ireland’s troubled history surrounding the Magdalene laundries, where countless women faced systemic cruelty.
Instead of portraying Furlong as a heroic figure, the film offers a nuanced depiction of a man grappling with the silence of his community. Murphy noted that Bill is “going through some deep, deep, emotional reckoning” in an interview with Radio Times. The movie heavily relies on subtlety, capturing the psychological burden of everyday complicity through delicate gestures and atmospheric cinematography.
Critics have lauded the film, resulting in an impressive 94% approval rating on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes. Co-star Emily Watson delivers a haunting performance as Sister Mary, the formidable Mother Superior who tries to intimidate Furlong into turning a blind eye. This tension transforms a quiet historical narrative into a profoundly impactful and morally urgent cinematic experience.
The release of ‘Small Things Like These’ marked a significant career milestone for Murphy, being the first feature produced under his Big Things Films banner alongside partner Alan Moloney. Shortly after its premiere at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival, Deadline confirmed that Murphy secured his next major starring and producing role directly with Netflix.
This upcoming collaboration is titled ‘Steve’, a poignant adaptation of Max Porter’s novel directed once again by Tim Mielants. Murphy also remains closely tied to the streaming giant through his iconic role as Tommy Shelby in the forthcoming feature continuation ‘Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man’. His creative partnership with Netflix is clearly ongoing, even as specific licensed films like his 2024 Irish drama rotate out of availability.
For those eager to experience Murphy’s subtle, career-defining performance, it’s essential to watch ‘Small Things Like These’ before midnight on October 27. If you miss the streaming deadline, the film will still be available on standard transactional video-on-demand platforms such as Apple TV and Amazon Video. Investing 98 minutes in this poignant historical drama serves as a powerful reminder of the courage needed to confront injustice.
Have you had the chance to stream ‘Small Things Like These’ on Netflix before its departure date? What did you think of Cillian Murphy’s compelling performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!